Digital transformation process of SME entrepreneurs: the perspective of century-old businesses
Journal of Foodservice Business Research, vol.29, no.2, pp.346-371, 2026 (Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 29 Issue: 2
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1080/15378020.2025.2525620
- Journal Name: Journal of Foodservice Business Research
- Journal Indexes: Scopus, Academic Search Premier, IBZ Online, ABI/INFORM, Business Source Elite, Business Source Premier, CAB Abstracts, Environment Index, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, Hospitality & Tourism Complete, Hospitality & Tourism Index
- Page Numbers: pp.346-371
- Keywords: Digital maturity, digital transformation, SME, technological readiness
- Eskisehir Osmangazi University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study explores digital transformation among century-old SMEs (established 1833–1921) in the food and beverage industry, focusing on their technological awareness and usage behaviors. Using a mixed method, convergent parallel design, it identifies four digital maturity stages: Technology Avoidant, Passive Acceptance, Technology Adaptation, and Researcher/Pioneer. These stages reveal diverse levels of digital integration influenced by both intrinsic motivations and external pressures. Unlike generic SME models, the framework highlights tradition driven resistance, nonlinear adoption paths, and a nuanced balance of internal and external drivers traits unique to historic SMEs navigating digital change.