The relationship between international networking and firm performance in British SMEs

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the effecto of international networking on the performance of British small and medium sized enterprises (SME). The international networking capabilities have been recognized as a vital element of growth and survival. In tnis research data has been collected using online questionnaries and mail survey for a sample of 118 SMEs operating in manufacturing, service providing and R&D sectors in the UK. The research hypotheses have been tested by applying the Structural Equation Model (SEM) methodology. The Lisrel software was used to test and analyse the relationship among variables. The collected data has been analysed using SEM. The data analysis illustates a positive and significant relationship between international networking activities of the SMEs and their performance. Learning, synergy of combined resources and knowledge sharing all were positively associated with profitability and to a lesser extent on sales growth.