The role of CSR in creating competitive advantage in the private sector: a case study of IBV company

Abstract

The study examined the role of CSR in creating a competitive advantage for IBV company in the private sector. The IBV company has been facing significant competition from competitors in the business internationalization business environment. However, to survive in the industry, businesses always try to create a competitive advantage. Therefore, this study will fill this gap by focusing on the role of CSR in creating a competitive advantage in the private sector with inferences drawn from the IBV company in the Gauteng Province. The study adopted a qualitative research approach where data was collected using semi-structured interviews. The study employed interviews with 10 purposively selected participants to scrutinize the strategic alignment of CSR efforts and its multifaceted impact on IBV company's success. Findings underscored the significance of strategic alignment as a guiding principle for CSR initiatives' triumph in IBV company's internationalization endeavours. The seamless integration of CSR into the broader business strategy emerged as a catalyst for achieving organisational goals and enhancing competitiveness in the private sector. The study highlighted the multifaceted impact of CSR on IBV company's competitive advantage in the dynamic business environment of the Gauteng Province. Tangible outcomes, including reputation enhancement and cost savings, were identified. The improvements in operational efficiency and resource management reinforced CSR as a strategic business approach, offering tangible benefits beyond philanthropy. Also, recommendations focussed on two critical aspects for optimizing CSR success: active stakeholder engagement and the development of measurable impact metrics. The study advocated for the quantification of CSR outcomes, allowing IBV company to gauge effectiveness and transparently communicate success to stakeholders and the broader business environment.