The internationalization journey of Ravasqueira

: a case study of portuguese SME expansion in the global wine industry

Abstract

This thesis examines the internationalization process of Ravasqueira, a Portuguese SME in the wine sector, to understand the motives, strategies, and circumstances that impacted its development into foreign markets. The research examines how Ravasqueira leveraged its resources, heritage, and strategic choices to overcome challenges like the liability of foreignness and fierce competition, utilizing established internationalization theories including the Eclectic Paradigm, the Uppsala Model, and the Resource-Based View. Through a qualitative case study approach, data was collected via interviews with key stakeholders and supplemented with secondary sources, including industry reports and academic literature. The findings highlight the interplay of internal capabilities and external market dynamics in shaping Ravasqueira's geographic expansion. The study reveals that adaptability, network­building, and the strategic use of entry modes were critical to the company's success. While the research provides valuable insights into SME internationalization, it is limited by its focus on a single case study within the wine industry. Nevertheless, the conclusions offer practical implications for SMEs in traditional sectors seeking to expand globally, emphasizing the importance of leveraging resources and tailoring strategies to diverse market conditions.

Date of Award	28 Jan 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Ricardo Reis (Supervisor)