The influence of globalisation on the competitiveness of tradesmen and craftsmen : A situational analysis of threats and opportunities in Manisa province

This thesis study investigates the contemporary problems confronting tradesmen and craftsmen in the rapidly globalising and competitive world context, and their adaptability skills. This study first scrutinizes the elements characterizing globalisation and then moves onto a deeper analysis of accelerators of global competitiveness by providing a review on relevant concepts. The second part of the study focuses on legal and technical distinctions between SMEs and tradesmen/craftsmen with a particular view to contributions of SMEs in UK, Germany and Turkey to the general economy based on the most current data. The final part of the study is dedicated to a situational analysis of the threats and opportunities faced by tradesmen and craftsmen operating in Manisa vicinity. The findings of the study show the primary challenge facing tradesmen and craftsmen is the lack of adequate financial and monetary support and subsidiaries. This is followed by high input prices, and the incredibly rapid changes in consumer preferences as well as short repayment periods for debit cards and high interest rates. The findings of the study generate some implications and recommendations for both theory and practice. We contend that tradesmen and craftsmen would greatly benefit from increased IT utilisation for more competitiveness at both local and global levels. They should also be financially supported through structured monetary programs. Finally, a concerted effort aiming at practical training and external consultancy would facilitate their competitiveness and adaptability skills. In this context, the study concludes that instituting public policies that incorporate universities, local administrations, NGOs and all other stakeholders to the process of policy development would contribute to higher and more effective competitiveness of local tradesmen and craftsmen. Keywords: Tradesmen, craftsmen, SMEs, globalisation, global competitiveness