Sustaining corporate success: what drives the top performers?

Abstract

Purpose

In a world afflicted with hyper‐competition, dynamic and increasingly rapid market changes, and global economic crises, there still exist, however rare, exceptional companies that have found a way to weather the storm and position themselves for a bright future. This study investigates success factors of top performing companies and drivers of innovativeness and corporate success.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a research study of over 700 European companies, this article explores ways in which many top companies have surged passed their competitors and achieved sustained corporate success. A synthesis of scientific studies, practical experience, and numerous conversations with successful entrepreneurs and senior executives, the results of the project are discussed in order to direct readers' attention to those levers that can help companies create, maintain and strengthen a competitive edge.

Findings

The study identifies the pillars of success of high‐performing companies and shows how leadership, entrepreneurship culture, market orientation, core competences and leadership influence innovativeness and corporate success.

Originality/value

Based on a large‐scale empirical study success factors are identified and it is shown how they work together. Examples of successful companies and interviews with senior executives give insights into the secrets of success of top performers.

Citation

Matzler, K., Bailom, F., Anschober, M. and Richardson, S. (2010), "Sustaining corporate success: what drives the top performers?", Journal of Business Strategy, Vol. 31 No. 5, pp. 4-13. https://doi.org/10.1108/02756661011076273