Absorptive capacity in small and medium-sized enterprises: an investigation in the hotel sector

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between the absorptive capacity and innovation of hotels (SMEs) in the west region of Santa Catarina, as well as their organizational performance. Methodology/approach: A Survey was applied to a sample of 120 hotel managers and the analysis was carried out by applying structural equation modeling (SEM).Originality/Relevance: This study is intended to help fill the gap in the absence of research on aspects that enhance innovation in the hotel sector, considering the high competition in the sector and consolidated practices.Main results: Innovation in hotels in the region is dependent on the absorptive capacity and, consequently, it is able to influence the organizational performance of the sector. We highlighted the difficulties of transforming and applying the knowledge acquired externally to the routines of hotels. In addition, the structural characteristics of hotels influence AC. Hotels have difficulty transforming the knowledge and information acquired from the external environment.Theoretical/methodological contributions: We contributed to the literature by studying hotels (SMEs) outside large centers. Our results showed that RACAP is the least evidenced element of AC in the investigated sector. This corroborates the thesis of a new configuration of the CA model for the service sector. Social/Management Contributions: Studies on absorptive capacity and innovation can help managers in countries with intense environmental and economic changes, where these changes are quickly reflected in the tourism sector. We warn managers that they must identify the external information necessary for the business and integrate it with existing knowledge.