EXPORTING FOR SUCCESS AS A SMALL CANADIAN MANUFACTURER

ABSTRACT This paper examines the factors associated with the export performance of a 38-firm sample of small Canadian manufacturers. Two measures of export performance, intensity and relative profitability, are employed in this study. The findings suggest that on-going commitment is important for both export intensity and profitability. This commitment can be reflected in both the human resources devoted to exporting and the management of the strategy components. Smallfirms can also enhance their profitability through careful product-market selection. With the proper focus and commitment, small firms can profit considerably from exports.