Sharing economy companies’ internationalization: A business ecosystem strategy

Abstract

This study focuses on the internationalization of sharecoms, specifically on how foreign sharecoms foster local communities and integrate them into a global business ecosystem. Using a qualitative multi-case study approach to examine the internationalization of eight European sharecoms, this study introduces a framework that delineates how sharecoms can engage with both core and non-core players in a foreign market. This research enriches the discourse on platform internationalization by proposing a strategic, replicable template for sharecoms to alleviate the challenges of foreignness and outsidership through building value-creating relationships with local players. • Qualitative empirical analysis of a diverse set of European sharing economy companies (sharecoms). • Investigation of the internationalization of sharecoms through a business ecosystem lens. • Comprehensive mapping of the sharecom's business ecosystem, the players, their roles, and relationships. • New insights on how sharecoms build and utilize value-creating relationships to facilitate internationalization. • Sharecoms internationalize by creating local communities, replicating their home market approach.