Analysis of the Relationship Between Selected Aspects of CSR Activity and Competitiveness of Enterprises Using Statistical Tools

Purpose: This paper attempts to identify and quantify the relationship between corporate social responsibility and the competitiveness of enterprises operating in the European Union.The aim of this article is to assess the relationship between selected CSR indicators and the competitive position of enterprises, taking into account environmental, social, and economic aspects.Methodology: This article analyzes CSR activities in the context of enterprise competitiveness in EU countries.First, a critical review of the relevant literature was conducted, followed by the selection of four predictors of enterprise competitiveness.Source data was obtained from the Eurostat database.Calculations were then performed using basic descriptive statistics.Six CSR indicators were then arbitrarily defined.The research culminated in determining the direction and strength of the relationship between CSR indicators and the competitiveness of enterprises in the EU.The Pearson correlation coefficients were grouped into four categories.Findings: The analysis of the indicators allowed for the assessment and comparison of the level of competitiveness of enterprises in EU countries.The obtained results revealed significant variation between countries.The results confirm that the impact of CSR on competitiveness is varied and ambiguous, indicating the complex relationship between social responsibility and economic performance.It was demonstrated that social responsibility can support competitiveness, but its impact depends on the type of indicator and the specific nature of the economic sector being analyzed.Practical implications: The research provided a synthetic understanding of the complex aspects of CSR in the context of enterprise competitiveness in EU countries.The results of the analysis can provide a valuable source of knowledge for managers and decision-makers, enabling them to: make more informed strategic decisions regarding investments in CSR activities that have a real impact on increasing enterprise competitiveness; and build a competitive advantage based on sustainable development and social responsibility, which is particularly important in the face of increasing pressure from customers, investors, and regulatory institutions.