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A Framework For Analysis Of Spatial Specialisations Of Industry, John Hobbs

Theses

Concentrations of firms in an industry sector within a geographic space or region have exercised the minds of economists for more than 100 years. Several models attempt to analyse the interactions and dynamics of such concentrations. Industry clusters (Porter, 1990) and industrial districts (Becattini 1978, Piore and Sabel 1984, Scott 1988a 19886, Storper 1989) are well known examples.

Yet debate continues about the validity of such models and how they function. While cluster theory has many adherents, spatial boundaries of a cluster and its determinants of competitive advantage remain controversial. Several variants of industrial district have been analysed, and according …