How Ethnic Minority SME Owners in the UK can Create Value Amid Informal Institutional Voids

Abstract

This article shows that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed informal institutional voids that exist for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) business owners in the United Kingdom. Based on a primary database of surveys and semi-structured interviews, the results show that many BAME small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners encountered informal institutional voids that White SME owners did not face during the pandemic. The article also shows how these BAME SME owners created value amid these institutional voids and how they can continue to do so. The article concludes by suggesting that bridging these voids is crucial for promoting a more inclusive environment where ethnic and non-ethnic entrepreneurs can succeed. It also presents policy implications and offers directions for future research.

The Impact of Climate Action on the Financial Performance of Food, Grocery, and Supermarket Retailers in the UK

“…These initiatives contribute to resource efficiency, corporate responsibility, and emission reduction associated with waste disposal. They can also help to reduce poverty through generosity and the reduction of institutional voids [39,[48][49][50]. However, challenges related to supply chain waste and shifting consumer behaviour remain areas of concern [51].…”

“…Consumer demand for eco-friendly products, which is consistent with business sustainability objectives, often drives the shift to environmentally conscious packaging. However, challenges such as the need for industry-wide standards, economic implications, and supply chain complexity, hinder the widespread adoption of eco-friendly packaging [1,37,49].…”