The behaviour of French SME entrepreneurs in front of the 50 employees threshold
This article takes a look at the impact of social thresholds on the growth ambition and behaviour of French SME entrepreneurs. Employer organisations believe that these thresholds, in particular that of the 50 employees, are a hindrance to the entrepreneurs’ growth ambition and largely explain the shortage of Mid-Cap companies on the French territory. So far, the issue of threshold effects and their impact on growth have not as yet been a focus of research. A qualitative study is underway to scrutinise the impact of the 50-employee threshold on the entrepreneurs’ intentions and behaviour. The initial description stage focuses on identifying the intentions and types of behaviour adopted and anticipated with regard to the thresholds. Subsequently, as part of an analytical approach, the factors inhibiting and facilitating the crossing of thresholds will be examined.