Which sustainable business model archetypes are more prevalent? An analysis of small and medium-sized enterprises

Abstract

There is still limited knowledge of business model archetypes for sustainability in small and medium-sized companies. This study aims to fill that gap by investigating empirically the sustainable business model archetypes adopted by small and medium-sized companies. An analysis of general company information and communication material data, consisting of searching for specific keywords frequency related to nine sustainable business model archetypes, has been conducted. With data over three years, the study finds that small and medium-sized companies prefer an economic archetype (repurpose for society and the environment) compared to an environmental one (creating value from waste) or to a social one across all three years. It also finds that social and environmental sustainability is an increasing trend for those enterprises. The study also considers potential drivers and barriers for small and medium-sized enterprises in adopting sustainable business models. This paper is expected to generate insights into the internal shift toward sustainable business models in small and medium-sized enterprises and contribute to the literature on sustainable business model archetypes and the role small and medium sized enterprises may have in the sustainability transition.