Influence of Business Competitiveness on SMEs Performance

Abstract

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a pivotal role in fostering socioeconomic development especially in developing countries. They create employment opportunities, empower communities, and make positive contributions towards GDP. The objective of this study is to understand the influence of business competitiveness on SMEs performance through a case study of auto body repairs SME enterprise in Namibia referred to as ABR for confidentiality. The methodology is mixed methods with in depth literature review, and detailed multiple case studies on eleven medium sized auto-body repair enterprises. The analysis is through strategy tools supported by secondary and published data and reports. The findings reflect that although ABR has a sound credit rating with local financial institutions and there are opportunities for growth, ABR also needs to invest in equipment to become more competitive and strengthen its market.