Product Innovation and Competitiveness of Commercial Banks in Kenya

Abstract

The dynamics of change in the business environment catalysed by globalization, changing consumer preferences, and a whirlwind of technological development have exerted immense pressure on commercial banks to introduce up-to-date products and services for sustainability. Product innovation has thus become a vital tool for survival and development. This study examined the influence of product innovation on the competitiveness of commercial banks in Kenya. The theory of creative destruction served as the study's guide. The study utilized a positivist research philosophy. Descriptive and correlational research designs were used. The target population consisted of 175 directors and general managers of Tier 1 commercial banks. Stratified and simple random sampling was then employed to select 122 respondents. Primary data was collected using closed and open-ended questionnaires. A pilot study was done on Equity Bank. To test validity, the study used content and construct validity. The study utilized descriptive and inferential analysis. Descriptive analysis included the use of frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation, while inferential statistics employed correlation and simple linear regression analysis. Data collected from open-ended questionnaires was analysed using content analysis. The results were presented in tables. The study found that product innovation had a positive and significant influence on the competitiveness of commercial banks in Kenya (t = 0.6.438, P = 0.000). The study thus recommends that commercial banks embrace product innovation as a tool to achieve competitiveness. Product innovation should be enhanced by carrying out regular surveys, seeking client views in the development of mobile and internet product innovations, and training clients on the usage of mobile and internet banking products before onboarding.