Strategy and Competitiveness in a Context of Internationalization: Building Construction Sector of Salvador, Bahia - Brazil

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the recent and strong process of internationalization of the sector of real estate construction in the city of Salvador, Bahia. Thus, we describe the installation of international companies in the metropolitan region, evaluate their impact on industrial competitive forces and analyze the reaction of national companies as they face new challenges. In order to do so, field research was conducted, including a literature review, document analysis, and interviews with the controllers of national and international real estate construction companies. The results reveal a strong impact on competitive dimensions, as well as an increasing positive response from local companies illustrated through improvement of managerial practices and the gradual improvement of the relationship with clients.