Exploring the Janus-faced Nature of Gazelles’ Corporate Citizenship: Societally Engaged Gazelles versus Superstar Firms

Abstract

This chapter critically discusses the many positive aspects that are ascribed to gazelle firms by exploring the external effects and dark sides of high firm growth. On the background of the more general debate on purpose versus profit as a firm’s mission, the chapter theoretically elaborates on the dichotomy between quantitative and qualitative growth of gazelles. This is followed by a case-based illustration and exploration as to how quantitative and qualitative growth interrelates in gazelles and what are impediments for high growth that is purpose driven. The chapter closes with a discussion of the Janus-faced nature of gazelles and how their corporate citizenship can be enhanced.

Citation

Dörrenbächer, C., Tomenendal, M., Grebe, A.-L. and Thielemann, J. (2022), "Exploring the Janus-faced Nature of Gazelles’ Corporate Citizenship: Societally Engaged Gazelles versus Superstar Firms", Becker-Ritterspach, F., Dörrenbächer, C. and Tomenendal, M. (Ed.) The Promises and Properties of Rapidly Growing Companies: Gazelles, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 129-148. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80117-818-120221007