Diversification Strategies of British Trading Companies: Harrisons & Crosfield, c.1900-c.1980

Geoffrey Jones and Judith Wale

Business History, 1999, vol. 41, issue 2, 69-101

Abstract: This article examines the diversification strategies and organisational competencies of Harrisons & Crosfield between 1900 and 1980. This firm was of the largest 'agency houses' in Southeast Asia and one which had played a prominent role in the development of the Malayan rubber industry. By the 1970s Harrisons & Crosfield resembled a sogo shosha in terms of its product and geographical diversification. This diversification was incremental, and often driven by risk reduction as well as by a culture open to new opportunities. Competencies were tacit and evolutionary. Diversification strategies were also sustained by learning from other firms, either by acquisition or joint ventures.

Date: 1999
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DOI: 10.1080/00076799900000258

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