Delningsekonomins affärsmodeller – Om hur affärsmodells-utveckling kan användas för att uppnå en kritisk massa & ekonomisk hållbarhet

Abstract

Purpose: The aim is to identify how essential factors for success within the sharing economy, with focus upon critical mass, can be managed through the business model in order to achieve economic sustainability. Particular focus has been placed upon business models within the B2B-segment of the sharing economy, where a small company within the transport sector states as an example. Methodology: A qualitative methodology, based on an abductive approach, has been used. The case study is explorative and based on qualitative semi-structured interviews and observations, as well as printed sources. Theoretical framework: The thesis’ theoretical framework consists of theories within the fields of the sharing economy, business models and business models within the sharing economy. Conclusions: This study has shown that critical mass can be considered to be the biggest challenge for companies within the sharing economy in order to become economically sustainable. The ability to achieve a critical mass is determined by how well the company uses business model development and innovation to handle other aspects such as trust, idling capacity, belief in the commons, customer effort and changing consumer behaviors. Furthermore, we have found that environmental benefits can be an important added value, but is not yet sufficient to alone attract a critical mass and therefore needs to be complemented by economic incentives.