Heiko Gebauer, Caroline Saul, Mirella Halidmann and Sasha Kramer
This paper aims to illustrate how managing multiple business models can become a key factor for succeeding in base-of-the-pyramid markets.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to illustrate how managing multiple business models can become a key factor for succeeding in base-of-the-pyramid markets.
Design/methodology/approach
Case study was conducted through an engaged scholarship approach.
Findings
The authors highlight that companies can manage multiple business models, if they are following these three steps: recognition of costs-and-benefits, improvement and growth and creation of synergies.
Practical implications
The study provides guidance on how to manage multiple business models.
Social implications
This paper discusses Sustainable Organic Integrated Livelihoods, a social enterprise, which provides basic sanitation in bade-of-the-pyramid markets.
Originality/value
Operating more than one business model could cause often strategic failures. Sustainable Organic Integrated Livelihoods explored the advantages of having multiple business models in following three steps: recognition of costs-and-benefits, improvement and growth and creation of synergies.