Product Innovations toward a Circular Economy: A Survey-Based Analysis of Slovak Manufacturing Firms

Purpose: This paper investigates the adoption of product eco-innovations among Slovak manufacturing firms in the context of circular economy (CE) transition and assesses their relationship with industry sectors and company size. Methodology/Approach: A quantitative survey of 101 Slovak manufacturing firms was analysed using chi-square tests, Cramér’s V, and Spearman correlations to explore links between eco-innovation adoption and firm characteristics. Findings: Firm size significantly relates to general product eco-innovation, but not to five of six specific eco-innovations (health impact, energy use, lifespan, pollution, recycling). Only easier maintenance or upgrading shows this link. No significant link exists between industry sectors and product eco-innovation, although sectoral differences are evident in specific eco-innovations. Specific eco-innovations, such as those that reduce pollution and increase product longevity, often co-occur. Research Limitation/Implication: The main limitation lies in the national scope and single-method approach. Originality/Value of paper: This paper adds to the limited empirical research on product eco-innovation in Central Europe by offering novel insights into sectoral and size-based patterns aligned with CE goals. Purpose: This paper investigates the adoption of product eco-innovations among Slovak manufacturing firms in the context of circular economy (CE) transition and assesses their relationship with industry sectors and company size. Methodology/Approach: A quantitative survey of 101 Slovak manufacturing firms was analysed using chi-square tests, Cramér’s V, and Spearman correlations to explore links between eco-innovation adoption and firm characteristics. Findings: Firm size significantly relates to general product eco-innovation, but not to five of six specific eco-innovations (health impact, energy use, lifespan, pollution, recycling). Only easier maintenance or upgrading shows this link. No significant link exists between industry sectors and product eco-innovation, although sectoral differences are evident in specific eco-innovations. Specific eco-innovations, such as those that reduce pollution and increase product longevity, often co-occur. Research Limitation/Implication: The main limitation lies in the national scope and single-method approach. Originality/Value of paper: This paper adds to the limited empirical research on product eco-innovation in Central Europe by offering novel insights into sectoral and size-based patterns aligned with CE goals.