BUSINESS MODEL INNOVATION AND SMEs PERFORMANCE — DOES COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE MEDIATE?.

In the era of globalisation and dynamic market, firms look for competitive advantage and survival using different sources and resources. Prior studies have indicated that Business Model Innovation (BMI) is a core driver for firm's survival and superior performance especially in growing industries. However, the role of BMI has been discussed theoretically and exploratory while empirical studies are still lacking. Hence, this study examines the importance of BMI in SME performance and the mediating role of competitive advantage. Data were collected through structured questionnaires using a sample size of 303 manufacturing SMEs operating in the emerging market of Pakistan. Hypotheses were tested through Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using AMOS.21. The results indicate that BMI has a significant positive impact on competitive advantage and SME performance. Competitive advantage partially mediates the relationship between BMI and SME performance. Firms are required to create an effective business model to acquire competitive advantage and superior financial performance. Implications for practice have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]