Positive and negative consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic on SMEs in Sweden

Abstract Title: Positive and negative consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic on SMEs in Sweden Purpose The aim of this study is to identify the positive and negative consequences due to the covid-19 on SMEs in Sweden and further specify strategies Swedish SMEs used to manage the influences. Methodology This study tends to show data, tables and figures based on Qualitative study and Semi-structured interviews and analysis of various related articles. Finding & Conclusion We find out that small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) face different challenges during Covid-19. Such as failed projects, temporary closure, financial consequences, reduction of job opportunities and challenges of implementing new strategies. We surveyed eight companies during the pandemic crisis and found out how those companies are overcoming the pandemic crisis. Various strategies such as flexibility among SMEs, innovation, investment, digitalization, and other management practices have been implemented by Swedish SMEs to solve the challenges. Contribution of the study The theoretical contribution is that we have enhanced the knowledge around the Covid-19 influences on SMEs and introduced the company's solutions regarding the impact of the pandemic. The theoretical contribution also showed that the Covid-19 have negative consequences. Another theoretical contribution is that the pandemic has a positive effect to some SMEs. Besides, the practical contribution is that we have provided new data from eight SMEs during the Covid-19 pandemic. Reflections and suggestions for future research The study focused on understanding the challenges and positive negative influences of the Covid-19 pandemic on only eight SMEs operating in Stockholm city of Sweden. Future studies can focus on finding challenges from Covid-19 pandemic on SMEs and large firms in different countries as well as regions. It could be also interesting to compare the strategies followed by the Swedish SMEs with SMEs from other countries to safeguard from the influences of Covid-19