Discontent, disappointment, and hope for a better future: views on the utility of the business model concept in the sharing economy

Jon Williamsson

Chapter 2 in Understanding the Urban Sharing Economy, 2025, pp 25-41 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: In Chapter 2, Jon Williamsson explores the use of traditional business models in Gothenburg's sharing and collaborative sectors, drawing on 24 interviews and four city-sponsored workshops. The chapter assesses the blend of commercial and non-profit paradigms within the sharing economy, spotlighting ideological conflicts stemming from neoliberal business frameworks employed by banks, investors and local authorities. These frameworks often clash with the community-focused values of sharing initiatives, leading to practical and ideological challenges. Proponents of a collaborative approach express dissatisfaction with the profit-oriented nature of traditional business models, which they feel undermines the ethos of sharing initiatives. While participants acknowledged the organisational and financial benefits of business models, they criticised their commercialisation of social interactions. The chapter argues that this commercial bias threatens the relational foundation of collaborative practices. To address these tensions, Williamsson proposes three strategies to adapt business models, balancing efficiency with the social and emotional values vital to the sharing economy.

Keywords: Sharing economy; Business models; Neoliberal frameworks; Ideological conflicts; Community values; Commercialisation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035320530
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