This insightful book shows how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from some of the traditionally less dynamic peripheral economies of the ?old? EU ? namely Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain ? have responded to the twin challenges of globalisation and industrial restructuring. Through a series of unique case studies the contributing authors discuss how these economies, and in particular the SME sector, can be transformed. The book begins by examining the key drivers of the globally competitive SME sector in the EU, before moving on to explore the relationship between multinational enterprises (MNEs), SMEs and industrial development. The authors investigate important policy implications and provide lessons for SME development and growth.With empirical and theoretical contributions on SMEs in both the manufacturing and the services sectors, this essential book will be invaluable for researchers and policymakers in small business economics and management. Postgraduate students of entrepreneurship, business economics, industrial economics and European studies will appreciate this unique set of insights.

The political and economic geography of Europe is changing - the European Community is expanding its boundaries towards EFTA and is resuming a closer association with Central and Eastern European regions engaged in radical restructuring. As EC integration accelerates there is the prospect of intensified inter-regional competition. This book, divided into five parts, examines in detail the changes and the challenge for policy makers. The introduction draws out the central themes of the book, addressing EC regional performance and future indicators, the enlargement and changing map of Europe and the implications for the EC of Eastern European changes. The second part deals with EC issues, particularly focusing on the economic and spatial impact of European integration. Part 3 addresses Eastern European issues, and Part 4 covers the Peripheral Regions. The final part is devoted to a policy debate, concluding with a policy agenda for the forthcoming decade.

One of the most striking trends in economic development since the 1970s has been the rising importance of the small firm. Focusing on the issues of enterprise development and the regional dimensions of small-firm growth, this book explores the literature of this area. Moving from an analysis of measures of growth to the effects of both internal and external variables - arguing that the owner-manager has a key role in the growth performance of the firm - the authors explore regional disparities in, and constraints on, growth, and make significant advances in the policy debate on understanding how faster growth can be achieved.

The political and economic geography of Europe is changing - the European Community is expanding its boundaries towards EFTA and is resuming a closer association with Central and Eastern European regions engaged in radical restructuring. As EC integration accelerates there is the prospect of intensified inter-regional competition. This book, divided into five parts, examines in detail the changes and the challenge for policy makers. The introduction draws out the central themes of the book, addressing EC regional performance and future indicators, the enlargement and changing map of Europe and the implications for the EC of Eastern European changes.
The second part deals with EC issues, particularly focusing on the economic and spatial impact of European integration. Part 3 addresses Eastern European issues, and Part 4 covers the Peripheral Regions. The final part is devoted to a policy debate, concluding with a policy agenda for the forthcoming decade.

One of the most striking trends in economic development since the 1970s has been the rising importance of the small firm. Focusing on the issues of enterprise development and the regional dimensions of small-firm growth, this book explores the literature of this area. Moving from an analysis of measures of growth to the effects of both internal and external variables - arguing that the owner-manager has a key role in the growth performance of the firm - the authors explore regional disparities in, and constraints on, growth, and make significant advances in the policy debate on understanding how faster growth can be achieved.

Marriage is one of Gods most beautiful gifts and is intended to bless us, fulfill us, and give us a path to sanctity. Understanding what true love entails and how grace works to overcome our wounded human nature is the key to a holy, happy, and passionat

How often do we view the Our Father only as a series of petitions rather than as a way to the heart of our heavenly Father? Popular Catholic author Mark Hart says that the prayer Jesus gave us is a reactionary prayerone that calls for a response from us. As he reflects on each of the words and phrases of the Our Father, he emphasizes the intimate relationship that God desires to have with us. Each of the fourteen ways Hart suggests for responding to the Lords Prayer begins with the letter Rfrom remembrance to repentance to reliance to resolve. This book will give readers a new appreciation for this profound yet simple prayer as well as a deeper understanding of the love that our Father pours out on us, his children. Informal and engaging style will appeal to both younger and older Catholics. Makes a thoughtful Confirmation gift.

For many of us, Lent can be a challenging time. We endure the pain of fasting, the struggle to give up comforts, and the hope to get through without too many slipups. But it doesn't have to be that way. Getting More out of Lent will guide readers to experience the wonderful gifts of the season of Lent, and help us come to know Jesus in more personal way.

This 40-page booklet is designed to maximize individuals or small groups time while providing a deep impact on one's spiritual life. Written for both individuals and small group use, this guide will offer insight, Scripture, and prayer, and lead participants to a closer relationship with Jesus in a way that is accessible, engaging, and meaningful to daily life.

A collection of fun and challenging Sudoku puzzles.

A collection of fun and challenging Sudoku puzzles.

A collection of fun and challenging Sudoku puzzles.

A collection of fun and challenging Sudoku puzzles.

A collection of fun and challenging Sudoku puzzles.