Date of Conferral
1-13-2025
Degree
Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
School
Business Administration
Advisor
Dr. Dina Samora
Abstract
Small business owners in the restaurant industry face financial, operational, and competitive challenges that often lead to failure. Identifying practical solutions to these setbacks is critical to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable strategies for long-term success. Grounded in Lazear's jack-of-all-trades theory, the purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore effective business planning strategies used by small restaurant owners to stay competitive and sustainable beyond the first 10 years of operation. The participants were five small restaurant owners in Western Canada, each with over 10 years of experience. Data were collected through semistructured interviews, public records, and organizational documents. Thematic analysis revealed key strategies: consistent industry benchmarketing, staff training, and adopting technologies like point-of-sale systems. Other strategies comprised strategic planning, adaptability, and customer relationship management. Recommendations include conducting periodic business evaluations, prioritizing employee development, and leveraging technology to enhance operations. The implications for positive social change include the potential to implement business planning strategies that improve small business sustainability, thereby fostering employee well-being, supporting local economies, and utilizing local suppliers.
Recommended Citation
Rivera, Sandra Elizabeth, "Strategies for Sustaining Small Business Beyond 10 Years" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 16916.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/16916
