Re-Internationalisation : Exploring Opportunities in Turbulent Environments

Abstract: Our thesis is based on the constantly changing internal and external environment causing firms to increase or decrease their internationalisation efforts. The focus of this thesis is going to be on describing the process of re-internationalisation, including the different stages of de-internationalisation, time-out, and re-entry as well as identifying the influences of the internal and external environment on the process of re-internationalisation.   The influences of the internal and external environmental on the process of re-internationalisation are analysed and accompanied by secondary data about the German biogas market, which the case company is considering to re-entry. The aim of the thesis is to contribute to existing literature by exploring the process of re-internationalisation and its stages of de-internationalisation, time-out and re-entry, to enhance the understanding of SME internationalisation patterns, and the influence of the internal and external environment   The process of de-internationalisation for the case company was characterised by a lower degree of market commitment in contrast to a complete exit. The degree of commitment was maintained during time-out stage, but due to changes in the internal and external environment a move towards re-entering the market was considered. The main influences, found in this single case study, can be separated along the stages of de-internationalisation, time-out and re-entry. The de-internationalisation was mainly driven by poor economic results and a lack of resources. During the time-out, the company’s acquisition led to a change in firm objectives. The re-entry was mainly influenced by changes in institutional policies and the previously altered company objectives caused a consequential increase in resources. The change in institutional policies was perceived as a business opportunity. However, the analysis of the case company’s market showed a deviation between perceived and actual business opportunity, highlighting the importance of acquiring up-to-date market knowledge.