The influence of board interlocks on firm performance: In the context of geographic diversification in the restaurant industry

Given the strategic importance of resources and service that interlocking directors bring to a firm, this study aims to examine the influence of board interlocks on financial performance in the restaurant industry based on the resource dependence theory. Further, as the primary purpose, this study incorporates geographic diversification as a pivotal contingent factor, playing a moderating role on the board interlocks-firm performance relationship. This study found not only a positive main effect of board interlocks on financial performance, but also a positive moderating effect of geographic diversification on the relationship between board interlocks and firm performance. These findings contribute to the corporate governance literature by providing a unique dimension that geographic diversification is a salient factor adjusting the effect of board interlocks on firm performance in the restaurant industry. The results further offer implications for managers and shareholders of restaurant firms when electing directors as representatives of shareholders.