IT AND THE SMALL RETAIL BUSINESS
International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management
ISSN: 0959-0552
Article publication date: 1 July 1993
Abstract
Information technology is generally accepted as an important source of competitive advantage for the small retail business, though UK research indicates that the take‐up rate has been slow. Examines the factors influencing take‐up among small food retail businesses in the UK. Based on a sample of 148 customers of one major supplier, confirms the findings from earlier research that the effective adoption of information technology is facilitated by the expertise of the owner‐manager and the influence of the large company supplier; and is retarded by the owner‐manager failing to appreciate the benefits IT can provide, particularly in terms of strategic management development and control. Concludes that, given the symbiotic relationship existing between supplier and retailer, suppliers need to ensure that their smaller firm customers receive the requisite education and training to facilitate IT adoption.
Keywords
Citation
Kirby, D.A. and Turner, M.J.S. (1993), "IT AND THE SMALL RETAIL BUSINESS", International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, Vol. 21 No. 7. https://doi.org/10.1108/09590559310046022
Publisher
:MCB UP Ltd
Copyright © 1993, MCB UP Limited