Critical success factors of the jewelery sector in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area: A comparative analysis between the industry and the literature

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this research is to determine the critical success of a sector well known for its secrecy, the jeweler, to compare them with those factors usually identified in the literature.

Methodology. Factors cited in the literature were taken from a bibliometric analysis. Those of the sector were obtained through case studies with interviews carried out with key actors.

Findings. It was found that there are three groups of factors: those of the literature, non-related to the sector (software); those of the industry (price, design, treatment, reputation) and those that coincide (quality, innovation). E-commerce is seen as necessary, but it is not among the main ones. Another finding for this industry is that the intergenerational transfer of know-how is essential to build competitive advantages.

Practical Implications. This industry in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area is important because it successfully competes in international markets and contributes 60% of total Mexican production.

Originality/value. The jewelry industry is a sector well known for its secrecy. Because of this, there are very few studies of this industry.