Web communication of CSR and financial performance: Study applied to catalan meat companies

Abstract

Purpose: Understanding the relationship between CSR communication on corporate websites and the financial performance of Catalan meat companies. Design/methodology/approach: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the CSR communication variables of corporate websites identifying the companies with the best CSR web communication’s practices, and economic and financial comparative analysis. It also modelled the financial returns to determine whether CSR communication, as an independent variable, affects the net profit generated in relation to the investment of the stakeholders. The analysis covered a sample of 130 Catalan meat companies. Findings and Originality/value: The report provides a diagnosis of the CSR web communication and also of the financial health of the companies in the period analyzed. The study contributes to the discussion on the relationship between CSR and financial performance. Research limitations/implications: It would be desirable extended periods of economic and financial analysis, and a more in depth study of online communication strategy incorporating the views of those responsible for the strategy and stakeholders. Practical implications: The analysis provides a better understanding of current corporate web communication and the economic and financial situation of the companies analyzed. It has practical benefits in making strategic decisions to improve the relationship with stakeholders and allows us to assess the forecast that has been made for this sector in Catalonia in the period analyzed. Social implications: The results of the study allow the industry to see the future prospects of this sector and to make the necessary changes. The results lead to improved transparency and responsible behavior. Originality/value: The analysis allows the stakeholders of the meat industry to evaluate the company’s social behavior, to assess the financial health and to take appropriate future actions.