CORPORATE ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND ORGANISATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF SELETED FOODS AND BEVERAGE COMPANIES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Corporate entrepreneurship has emerged as a critical driver of competitiveness in dynamic industries such as food and beverages. This study investigates the impact of innovation and proactiveness, two key dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation, on non‑financial performance outcomes, specifically corporate image and organisational effectiveness, in selected Nigerian food and beverage companies (Dangote Sugar plc and Honeywell Flour Mills Plc). Using a quantitative survey design and stratified random sampling of 361 managers, supervisors, and senior staff, data were analysed through reliability tests and regression models. Results revealed that innovation significantly enhances corporate image, while proactiveness positively influences organisational effectiveness. Furthermore, the combined effect of innovation and proactiveness explained 40% of the variance in corporate image and 34% in organisational effectiveness, underscoring their joint importance in sustaining competitiveness. The findings align with the Resource‑Based View and Entrepreneurial Orientation theory, confirming that entrepreneurial behaviors are strategic resources that strengthen both reputation and adaptability. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the role of corporate entrepreneurship in driving non‑financial performance outcomes, offering practical insights for Nigerian firms seeking sustainable growth in volatile markets.