Vasiliki Theodorou, the founder of MISS POLYPLEXI brand, states:
“The voice and opinion of small and medium-sized enterprises can contribute to the formation of a more democratic and liberal society”. Read the following insightful article by Vasiliki Mourela, Political Scientist, Entrepreneurship & Career Guidance Consultant, where she explains how this can be achieved.
The Social Significance of Saving SMEs
The rescue and empowerment of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have emerged as a critical social issue in contemporary society. Beyond their economic contributions, SMEs are now called upon to engage in the public sphere and contribute to reshaping the social fabric amidst a crisis marked by a dominant consumer culture.
SMEs primarily operating in manufacturing and retail sectors represent an alternative voice against the imposed perception that creates “model identities” for consumer behavior. In recent years, large industries have sought to enforce their dominance through overwhelming advertising and branding strategies, constructing standard identities that dictate how consumers should spend. These industries overwhelm the market with new products and narratives, pushing a singular view of desire and consumption.
Source: https://aaronweiss.tumblr.com/post/99320142233/blindnyc-blind-consumerism-in-nyc-created-by
The challenge lies in the flexibility of SMEs, which, alongside global calls for re-evaluating the hegemony of larger companies, has pressured these giants to adapt their strategies. Instead of solely dominating the market, large enterprises are now seeking temporary partnerships with smaller players, emphasizing the sustainability of these SMEs and their growth potential.
However, the prevailing dynamics pose a trap for SMEs, as they are often coerced into conforming to the dominant culture shaped by larger corporations. This pressure compels smaller businesses to align their offerings with established norms to be accepted in the marketplace. The result is a monopolization of public taste and preference, where dominant brands overshadow small enterprises, restricting diversity in consumer choice and expression.
The issue at stake with supporting SMEs is the promotion of a more democratic expression and choice for consumers. The existence of small businesses challenges the imposed consumer culture, providing an alternative to the hegemonic trends and opening avenues for social dialogue around consumption.
The presence of SMEs facilitates a richer marketplace where diverse identities can flourish. By fostering new consumer cultures and supporting small businesses, society can benefit from varied perspectives that contribute to a healthier economic and social environment.
Ultimately, addressing the social and political dimensions of supporting SMEs is essential for cultivating a more inclusive and democratic society, where consumer choice is broadened and the influence of small businesses is recognized as valuable in countering the dominance of large industries. The survival of SMEs is not just an economic imperative but a crucial element in maintaining a diverse and dynamic social landscape.
Bibliography: Stavrakakis G. Transformations of the social fabric and the deadlocks of the modern subject.
Article written by Vasiliki Mourela, Political Scientist, Entrepreneurship & Career Guidance Consultant
We express our heartfelt gratitude to her for the opportunity to feature this insightful summary of her article on our website’s blog.
Full article published here (written in Greek):
https://www.naftemporiki.gr/opinion/266280/i-koinoniki-simasia-tis-diasosis-ton-mme/
