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What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Industrial Cluster

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This section aims to elucidate the concept of industrial clusters, reaching a concise definition of the term for the purpose of this paper. It then proceeds to provide a brief overview of the advantages and potential disadvantages of clustering. Marshall (1920) was among the earliest economists to deal with the concept of clusters, noticing the importance of industrial localisation in 19th century English industrial regions. While Marshall referenced the technological dynamism in British industrial districts, he failed to distinguish between localisation as a means of reducing production costs, and localisation as a driving force for the technological advancements of an industry. Early definitions did not emphasise geographical concentration …show more content…

Improved sharing of information regarding opportunities, markets and trends can lower risks and barriers for start-ups. The specialised infrastructure can provide further support for new firms in overcoming initial challenges such as funding and recognition. Swann, Prevezer, and Stout (1998) provide a different look at the potential advantages of clustering, as well as the potential disadvantages, and categorises these into demand side and supply side. These are summarised in table 1.1 below. Should I include a more thorough explanation of each of these in the Appendix?? Demand side Supply Side Advantages • Input-output multipliers • Hotelling • Reduced search costs • Information externalities • Technology spillovers • Specialised labour pool • Specialised infrastructures Disadvantages • Congestion and competition in output markets • Congestion and competition in input markets Table 1.1 Advantages and disadvantages of clustering (Swann, Prevezer, and Stout, 1998) Interestingly, both Porter and Swann et al consider clustering as a “spontaneous phenomenon” and fail to consider actions by public actors to maximise or increase the net benefits from clustering. This is surprising as, particularly in the biotech sector, public action has often been a crucial factor in creating and sustaining

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