Core competencies and sustainable competitive advantage in air-cargo forwarding: Evidence from Taiwan

Abstract

This study aims to identify the core competencies of the air-cargo forwarding industry and to investigate the relationship between core competencies and sustainable competitive advantage (SCA). This study therefore adopts the resource-based view of the firm to examine the cause-and-effect relationships of internal dimensions such as resources, capabilities, and logistics services on SCA in the air-cargo forwarding industry. In addition, several external factors affecting SCA were examined. Structural equation modeling was used to conduct a confirmatory factor analysis between the survey data and theoretical framework. Results indicate that resources, capabilities, and logistics services all positively influence SCA. Capabilities are considered to be the most essential internal dimension influencing the SCA of air-cargo forwarders. In terms of the capabilities dimension, staff capability to provide better customer service was the critical factor. In addition, strategy alliances are regarded as the essential source of external assistance in achieving SCA. The results of this study will be useful for conducting future strategic planning of air-cargo forwarding.