Abstract
Internationalization strategy has largely focused on stage theory and new venture theory. While both approaches have provided substantial insights into the process of internationalization, they have only marginally addressed resulting performance implications. Indeed, the two theories are at odds with patterns of foreign market entry regarding age and speed of internationalization. Drawing from empirical data in the retail industry, this research investigates the relationship between international age and internationalization speed and the resulting impact on growth. Our results suggest re-phrasing the concept of ambidexterity within an international context.