The Determinants of Location Choice in the Internationanalization Process of Polish Companies: a Qualitative Study

The internationalization of Polish companies via equity entry modes is still a phenomenon limited in scope, especially when compared to that occurring in developed countries, however showing a clear upward trend. Within this research framework the following paper presents the results of a qualitative study devoted to the geographical patterns of foreign expansion of Polish companies. The theoretical analysis, based on the eclectic (OLI) paradigm of international production, the internationalization process model and the Strategy Tripod, is focused simultaneously on the determinants of location choice related to host country and firm characteristics. Case study results indicate that host country choice is related to the investment motives. Moreover, the role of location choice criteria depends on the host country level of development.