Despite the presence of giant firms or enterprises, small businesses and
enterprises continue to exist and play a significant role in the economy
for several reasons. Here are some key points to consider when discussing why small enterprises persist alongside large corporations:
1.Specialization and Niche Markets: Small enterprises often cater to
niche markets or specialized industries that may not be effectively served by larger corporations. They can focus on specific products, services, or customer segments that require personalized attention, customization, or unique offerings.
2.Flexibility and Adaptability: Small businesses are known for their
agility, flexibility, and ability to respond quickly to market changes, customer demands, or industry trends. They can adjust their strategies, operations, and offerings more rapidly than large corporations, allowing them to stay competitive in dynamic environments.
3.Local Presence and Community Engagement: Small enterprises often
have a strong local presence and community ties, which can foster customer loyalty, trust, and support. They contribute to the local economy, create jobs, and provide personalized services that resonate with community needs and preferences.
4.Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Small businesses are often hubs of
innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, where new ideas, products, or services are developed and introduced to the market. They can experiment, take risks, and explore unconventional approaches that may lead to breakthroughs and industry disruptions.
5.Cost-Effectiveness and Efficiency: Small enterprises can operate with
lower overhead costs, streamlined processes, and leaner structures compared to large corporations. This cost-effectiveness allows them to offer competitive pricing, maintain profitability, and survive in markets where margins are tight.
6.Job Creation and Economic Diversity: Small businesses are significant
contributors to job creation, economic growth, and diversification, particularly in sectors like retail,services,hospitality, and technology. They provide employment opportunities, foster entrepreneurship, and promote economic resilience by reducing dependence on a few dominant players.
7.Customer Relationships: Small enterprises have the advantage of
building strong, personalized relationships with customers, understanding their needs, and providing tailored solutions that may be lacking in large corporations focused on mass production or scale.
8.Risk Management: Small businesses can diversify risk, explore niche
markets, and test new concepts or products on a smaller scale before scaling up, allowing them to be more agile, resilient and adaptive to changing market conditions.
9.Regulatory Compliance: Small enterprises may face less regulatory
burden or red tape compared to large corporations, enabling them to operate more efficiently, navigate legal requirements, and maintain compliance without the complexities associated with corporate governance.Weak business climates and lack of enforcement of regulations can encourage and allow large informal operators to operate with near impunity. Governments should promote policies that assist small informal firms to improve productivity and raise incomes while enforcing fiscal and regulatory obligations for large informal actors 10.Entrepreneurial Spirit: Small businesses embody the entrepreneurial spirit, ambition, and vision of their founders, who often take personal ownership, pride, and responsibility for their ventures, driving growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability.
11.Different Operational Needs: Small and midsize enterprises operate
differently from large, multinational companies. They may require fewer systems and narrower scope of operations, making them suitable for certain industries and business models.
12.Classification Criteria: Enterprises can be classified based on the
number of employees, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) employing fewer than 250 people. This classification acknowledges the distinct role and presence of small enterprises in the business landscape.
Overall, the coexistence of small enterprises alongside giant firms
reflects the diversity, dynamism, and resilience of the business ecosystem. Small businesses bring unique strengths, advantages, and contributions to the economy and society that complement the scale, resources, and reach of larger corporations. By fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, job creation, and community engagement, small enterprises contribute to a vibrant and sustainable business landscape that benefits both local communities and the broader economy. Their ability to adapt, specialize, and connect with customers on a personal level underscores the enduring appeal and value of small businesses in a competitive and ever-changing market environment. Reference:Jackson, L. M. (2019).American Psychological Association.The psychology of prejudice>>From attitudes to social action (2nd ed.)
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