Mimetic isomorphism, offshore outsourcing and backshoring decisions among micro and small enterprises

This paper exploits novel data on Italian manufacturing firms to investigate how mimetic isomorphism influences offshore outsourcing and backshoring decisions among micro and small enterprises (MSEs). The results show that offshore outsourcing by peers located in the same home region positively affects the likelihood that an MSE will engage in the same global sourcing strategy. When these dynamics emerge, firms are more likely to engage in long-lasting foreign subcontracting relationships. Mimetic isomorphism is only detected during the early stages of the internationalization process, while backshoring practices appear to be the result of more independent decisions.

Automated summary

The study found that offshore outsourcing decisions by peers in the same home region positively influence other micro and small enterprises to engage in similar global sourcing strategies and establish long-lasting foreign subcontracting relationships. Mimetic isomorphism is only effective in the early stages of the internationalization process, while backshoring practices are likely the result of more independent decisions.