KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER (KT) PRACTICES IN SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs) of TURKISH TEXTILE AND APPAREL INDUSTRY

Abstract

This paper examines how knowledge is developed in supplier or buyer relationships in Turkish SMEs. The knowledge transfer activities in Turkish textile and apparel industry have been explored in this study. The knowledge transfer is undisputedly important subjects as knowledge provides competitive advantage to firms. Only few percentages of the Turkish textile and apparel industry are engaged in knowledge transfer activity although it is recorded as the largest industry in Turkish economy. Turkish textile and apparel industry is mostly run by family and most of them are either unaware or reluctant to involve in the knowledge transfer activities. This study examines the knowledge transfer practices in Turkish textile and apparel industry’s SMEs through qualitative research and quantitative analysis by undertaking extensive literature reviews and present situation in Turkey.