Ethics in Small and Medium Sized Enterprises pp 313-332 | Cite as
Ethics in Agricultural and Stockbreeding SMEs: An Argentinean Case Study
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Abstract
Family companies are a special type of business (included in the Small and Medium Sized Enterprise classification) and its characteristics may not fit the usual indicators. Its relative importance within the countries’ economy, especially in the case of underdeveloped countries, justifies the research about its nature, behaviour and possible future. The object of the current study is the “agricultural family SME”, specifically a family business located in Argentina, whose origin can be traced back to the end of XIX century. It includes: importance of the foreign immigration in the development of small towns in Argentina; cultural contribution in the development of the new communities through mixed agricultural and stockbreeding activities; land possession as an element of immigrants participation in the politic life of the new country; and contribution of values for the management of their SMEs, creating a Corporate Social Responsibility that differs from that of the large companies, with a strong commitment with its employees and the environment. The existence of family businesses dedicated to land exploitation has a special meaning in a country such as Argentina, whose main income source is agricultural and stockbreeding activities. These companies are not only important because of the quantity, but also because of their cultural influence. The development of farming activities in Argentina was mostly carried out by this kind of companies. The land itself constitutes the main capital source.
Keywords
Family business Agricultural and stockbreeding SMEs SMSEs valuesReferences
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