The more things change the more they stay the same: a replicated study of small retail firm resources

This research identifies the resources that predict performance in small, independent retail firms over a three-year period. Surveys were mailed to small business owners in 2013 and in 2016. Responses (2013, n = 384; 2016, n = 363) from each administration revealed consistent findings: informational (business information systems) resources and access to financial capital were positively related to firm performance, as measured by average annual sales turnover. On the other hand, informational (web) resources, including social media, were negatively related to performance. Strategic orientation and planning capability were examined as possible mediators of the resources-performance relationship. The results from this replicated study demonstrate, which firm resources do, and do not, relate to small, independent retail firm success.