Coupling production networks and regional assets in manufacturing clusters

Abstract

Paradoxically, the ongoing process of globalisation goes hand in hand with a surge of interest in the \xe2\x80\x98local\xe2\x80\x99 sources of firm competitiveness. In this paper, we develop a frame of analysis that helps to understand \xe2\x80\x98coupling\xe2\x80\x99 of production networks and regional development. Our aim is to reflect on the \xe2\x80\x98spatiality\xe2\x80\x99 of different types of networks, and to study the dynamic coupling process between these networks and regional assets. We apply the framework to two case studies \xe2\x80\x93 shipbuilding in Turku and machine building in Porto. Our analysis points towards the relevance of regional assets facilitating this coupling process and in strengthening regions as magnets for global production networks, reinforcing the long term sustainability of different types of clusters