Greek Hidden Champions: Lessons from Small, Little-known Firms in Greece

Irini Voudouris; Spyros Lioukas; Spyros Makridakis; Yiannis Spanos

doi:10.1016/S0263-2373(00)00057-8

Greek Hidden Champions: Lessons from Small, Little-known Firms in Greece

Irini Voudouris, Spyros Lioukas, Spyros Makridakis, Yiannis Spanos

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review

Abstract

The purpose of the research described in this paper is to first identify successful Greek SMEs that can be qualified as 'hidden champions' and second to uncover the factors that have contributed to their success. These factors relate to their choice of markets served, their relationships with customers and suppliers, innovative behavior, leadership and human resources management practices. The findings suggest that four overall themes or 'recipes' may explain the success of these firms: (a) intense specialization in narrowly defined market segments, (b) commitment to customer service, (c) innovative culture and adaptation to new technologies, and (d) strong leadership and a healthy organizational climate.

Original language	English
Pages (from-to)	663-674
Number of pages	12
Journal	European Management Journal
Volume	18
Issue number	6
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1016/S0263-2373(00)00057-8
Publication status	Published - 1 Jan 2000

Keywords

Champions
Competitive advantage
Customer services
Innovation
Leadership
Niche markets
SMEs

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

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10.1016/S0263-2373(00)00057-8

Cite this

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abstract = "The purpose of the research described in this paper is to first identify successful Greek SMEs that can be qualified as 'hidden champions' and second to uncover the factors that have contributed to their success. These factors relate to their choice of markets served, their relationships with customers and suppliers, innovative behavior, leadership and human resources management practices. The findings suggest that four overall themes or 'recipes' may explain the success of these firms: (a) intense specialization in narrowly defined market segments, (b) commitment to customer service, (c) innovative culture and adaptation to new technologies, and (d) strong leadership and a healthy organizational climate.",

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KW - Customer services

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Greek Hidden Champions: Lessons from Small, Little-known Firms in Greece

Abstract

Keywords

UN SDGs

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