Innovative clusters: global or local linkages?

Abstract

The idea of industrial clusters forming the basis of regional economic growth has moved rapidly from academe to policy. This research, which forms part of the ESRC Cities: Cohesion and Competitiveness Programme, suggests that greater clarity is needed in defining and applying the concept in different regions. Several different types of clusters have already been identified. The precise basis of their relative success also seems to be different according to the degree of globalisation present and the position that regions occupy in their national hierarchies. In the case of London and the South East, the research shows that the internal characteristics of firms, the ‘pick and mix’ possibilities of a large agglomeration, and its position as an international trading gatweway, are critical for successful innovation in the region.