From corner store to superstore: a historical analysis of Sainsbury’s co-evolution

Purpose - The purpose of this study is to explore the conceptualisation of co-evolution using a corporate history research approach. While the application of the co-evolutionary perspective to the organisational-nvironmental relationships has uncovered significant evidences, little is understood about how the co-evolutionary process occurs over time between organisations and their institutional environment. Design/methodology/approach - A co-evolutionary corporate history approach in used, as the authors investigated Sainsbury's historical trajectory, exploring the role specific family members played in the evolution of the firm and the co-evolution of Sainsbury's with its environment. This research design framework encompasses longitudinal archival analysis which incorporates both external and internal engagement which fostered Sainsbury's joint evolution. Findings - The findings from this study clearly suggest that certain organisations can and do co-evolve with their environment. However, organisations need to build legitimate cases for co-evolution to occur. In addition, they need to acquire certain resources that can be used to stimulate changes within their institutional environment. Originality/value - Through a corporate history archival analysis, this study presents a UK company's evolutionary narrative. The authors contribute to the growing literature on co-evolution in management studies by presenting a detailed historical narrative and interpretation of Sainsbury's evolution at different time periods.