The Collaboration between Social and Commercial Businesses : A case study of Eskilstuna Elektronikåtervinning

Abstract: Purpose - The purpose is to analyze the motivation and the forms under which collaborations between social and commercial businesses can be established and maintained. This leads to the investigation of an essential area that remains with limited research and an understanding of the benefits and challenges that occur in such collaborations. A qualitative study of the relationship between the case company and its commercial partner helps to examine these aspects. Research question - What are the benefits and challenges that could be met in the collaboration between a commercial business and a social enterprise? Method - A qualitative method with the deductive approach is used in the research. A case study is chosen in order to present quality information and examine in depth the research problem and purpose. The empirical findings include primary and secondary data collected from the case company and its partner. A single case study limits findings and conclusions from the direct application to the wider population. However, common patterns are found and might be adapted in other similar cases. Conclusion - During the establishment and development of the collaboration, different issues and benefits are emerging. The main challenges that occur are power imbalances, due to the resource dependency of one party over the other, and the control over partnership’ outcomes. While, benefits include commercial companies’ financial performance enhancement, reputation and social responsibility practice reinforcement, employees’ commitment increment and, finally, support for social enterprises’ financial sustainability and future development. Keywords - Social Enterprise, Collaboration with Commercial Business, Problems and Outcomes in Partnership with Social Enterprise.