Samkeppnishæfis

Samkeppnishæfis is a term used in Icelandic economics and business literature to denote the competitive ability or competitiveness of a company, industry, or economy to perform in markets over time. It captures the capacity to maintain or increase market position in the face of rivals, considering price, quality, innovation, service, and other factors that influence buyers’ choices. The word combines samkeppni (competition) and hæfi/hæfni (ability).

Factors contributing to samkeppnishæfis include cost efficiency, productivity, product differentiation, branding, customer service, access to distribution channels, regulatory environment, and the availability of skilled labour and capital for innovation. Dynamic capabilities such as learning, organisational flexibility, and the ability to adapt to changing technology and consumer preferences are also central. Firms typically develop samkeppnishæfis through investments in technology, R&D, process improvement, human capital, and strategic partnerships, as well as by building strong brands and reliable supply chains.

Assessments of samkeppnishæfis rely on indicators such as productivity growth, unit labour costs, export performance, market share, R&D intensity, product quality, lead time, and customer satisfaction. Because competitiveness is context dependent and evolves over time, the concept is often used in combination with SWOT analyses, industry studies, and macroeconomic evaluations. It is related to, but distinct from, short-run price competition and from the broader notion of national or regional competitiveness.