Perceived Export Success Factors of Small and Medium-Sized Canadian Firms

Abstract

In drawing attention to certain important gaps in the export marketing literature, this paper reports on a systematic study of critical factors for export success of small and medium-sized manufacturing firms in Canada. In this ethnocentric context, an attempt is made to investigate the presence of potentially significant differences in perceptions of key export success factors based upon export development, firm size, and product type. The study results point to the importance of the level of export development, product type and, to a lesser extent, company size in influencing exporter perceptions of factors contributing to export success. The implications of the findings for business practitioners and public policy makers are discussed, and avenues for future research outlined along with the limitations of the study.