The path to sustainability transition for micro-enterprises: Cluster-based analysis of stakeholder pressure

The global economy is increasingly prioritizing responsible business conduct, emphasizing sustainability, environmental protection, and ethical norms. As a result, companies face growing pressure from stakeholders to adopt sustainability principles. This study examines how Hungarian micro-enterprises integrate stakeholder interests into their strategies, identifying which stakeholders exert sustainability pressure. Based on responses from 587 firms, K-means cluster analysis classifies them into six groups, ranging from those influenced by all stakeholders to those perceiving no pressure. Cluster membership correlates with key organizational traits, including CEO gender, sustainability values, and success criteria (profit-driven vs. sustainability-oriented). Notably, firms differ in their definitions of sustainability, highlighting varied perceptions and responses. Our findings enhance the understanding of sustainability dynamics in micro-enterprises, offering insights for developing competitive business models, shaping national regulations, and guiding policies that encourage sustainability in the smallest business entities.