Industrial Cluster and Its Spatial  Restructuring in the Information Age

By: Q. Qian. In: Lu, D. (eds) The Transforming Spatial Organization in the  Information Age, DOI: 10.1007/978-981-97-2223-5_5, November 2024.

Abstract: “The industrial cluster is a typical phenomenon and a critical momentum for regional economic development. For quite a long time, economic geographers have been paying attention to industrial clusters, the phenomenon of industrial agglomeration in specific areas, and the spatial organization of economic activities.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of cluster ecosystems and intellectual capital in  achieving high-growth entrepreneurship: evidence from Germany

By: Y. Temouri, H-P. Luong, V. Pereira, H. Rammal. Journal of Intellectual Capital, DOI: 10.1108/JIC-01-2024-0017, November 2024.

Abstract: “Purpose – This paper examines the role played by business cluster ecosystems and intellectual capital (IC) in achieving high-growth firm (HGF) status. Design/methodology/approach – We draw our insights from the knowledge-based perspective and economic geography as a theoretical lens, which combined offer a more unifying understanding of how business cluster ecosystems and IC foster high growth entrepreneurship. Findings – Drawing on a sample of 11,360 German incorporated firms across 80 clusters, we find that cluster ecosystems play a significant role in supporting firms to become HGFs. More specifically, being located in business clusters increases the likelihood of becoming HGFs by 2.2% to 4.49%. We also find that clusters with more productive firms in the ecosystems provide favorable conditions for member firms to achieve HGF status, while the impact of other cluster-specific conditions (high-tech cluster membership and multinational enterprise share in clusters) is less clear. Additional insights suggest that firm IC (investments in intangible assets) enables

firms to achieve high growth status. Research  limitations/implications – The findings of this paper hold theoretical and managerial relevance and shed more light on the impact of cluster-specific factors in the ecosystems and firm IC in achieving high growth entrepreneurship. Originality/value – This paper is among the first of its kind to bring together three distinct literatures (HGFs, business clusters and IC) and utilize insights from each to derive a conceptual framework that links them in explaining high-growth entrepreneurship.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHORS]

Strategic Formation of Agricultural Market Clusters in  Ukraine Emerging as a Global Player

By: M. W. Sitnicki, D. Kurinskyi, O. Pimenowa, M. Wasilewski, N. Wasilewska. Sustainability, DOI: 10.3390/su16219430, October 2024.

Abstract: “This study investigates the cluster approach to optimize strategies for agricultural enterprises in Ukraine, emphasizing geographical proximity as a key factor in cluster formation. The research applies Kohonen Self-Organizing Maps (SOMs) and Ward’s hierarchical clustering to classify enterprises based on storage capabilities, transport logistics, crop yields, and military risk exposure. By analyzing these factors, this study identifies distinct patterns of innovation adoption, strategic management, and economic resilience among the clusters. The findings highlight variations in competitiveness and resource efficiency, providing a detailed understanding of regional economic performance. Unlike previous research, this study offers a novel integration of conflict-related risks into the clustering methodology, revealing new insights into how military factors influence cluster dynamics. Comprehensive maps and diagrams illustrate the spatial and economic distribution of clusters, aiding in visual interpretation. The results propose strategic measures tailored to enhance agricultural productivity and competitiveness, particularly in Ukraine’s current military context. This approach offers a more adaptive framework for managing agricultural enterprises, promoting resilience and long-term sustainability in global markets.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHORS]

Geographical and organised  proximities influencing circular economy practices: the closer partners, the  better?  

By: N. Arfaoui, S. Bourdin, A. Torre, M-F. Vernier, L-C. Vo. Regional Studies, DOI: 10.1080/00343404.2024.2406232, October 2024.

Abstract: “Research argues that the proximity between firms represents an important determinant of their adoption of circular economy practices. However, several shortcomings remain: (1) extant studies do not explicitly examine the role of proximity between firms, but rather study the importance of inter-organisational cooperation; (2) some exclusively investigate geographical proximity, but focus on specific context through case studies, leading to a lack of generalisable and robust evidence; and (3) the role of organised proximity remains largely unexplored. In this paper, we address those issues by relying on data from an original survey of 1000 firms in the chemistry sector in France.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHORS]

Coopetitive service innovation: the  role of geographical proximity, innovation focus and customer cooperation

By: H. Virtanen, P. Björk. Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, DOI: 10.1108/JBIM-12-2023-0765, October 2024.

Abstract: “Purpose – Previous research on the impact of coopetition on innovation performance has provided contradictory results. Thus, this study aims to fill the gap by gathering data to explain the impact of coopetition on service innovation, considering the partners’ geographical proximity, innovation focus of the firm and cooperation with customers. Design/methodology/approach – A logistic regression model is applied, and four hypotheses are tested using data from the Eurostat Community Innovation Survey 2018. The cross-sectional data set consists of 13,723 firms innovating services in selected European Union countries. Findings – The findings verify the importance of coopetition for service innovation. However, the coopetitive partners’ nationality does not have a significant impact. Furthermore, the integration of customer cooperation with coopetition enhances service innovation. Hence, competing partners seem not to avoid cooperation in output functions near the customers. To coopete in innovation is risky, but the findings reveal that partners develop novel services through coopetition, intended to produce a higher return to compensate for the risks. Originality/value – Presumably, this is one of the first large-scale studies examining the impact of coopetition on service innovation in a European context. This study indicates that coopetition amplifies service innovation, thus reducing the divergent views on the impact of coopetition on innovation performance. It responds to the request for more research on the context of coopetitive innovation by explaining how the firms’ geographical proximity, innovation focus and cooperation with customers impact their service innovation performance.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHORS]

Sustainable resource management in an agro-industrial  cluster: a case study

By: A. Nahwani, Soeprijanto, E. Widodo. Journal of lifestyle & SDG’s review, DOI: 10.47172/2965-730X.SDGsReview.v5.n02.pe02764, November 2024.

Abstract: “Introduction: The challenge of water supply and sustainable energy is crucial for addressing long-term clean water and energy challenges. Moreover, there has been an increase in water and air pollution resulting from the community's activities. Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate conservation strategies must be enacted to reduce dependency on clean water and energy supplies. Theoretical  Framework: In this topic, the main concepts and theories that underpin the research are presented. Cost reductions, environmental sustainability, and an improved public image for understanding are context of the investigation. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises the case study uses a quantitative descriptive method to identify the estimated potential amount of biogas and water quality produced from tapioca and sago industrial wastewater. Data collection was carried out through the specific methods used, such as interviews, questionnaires, observations, and laboratory testing. Results  and Discussion: The results obtained revealed energy generation from starch wastewater and recycled water from tapioca wastewater. The wastewater was treated in a biogas reactor as primary treatment to reduce the environmental load and produce biogas simultaneously. The wastewater recycling scheme for the tapioca industry, the quality and quantity of treated water recycled. Research  Implications: Biogas production from wastewater reduces energy costs in starch industries. Recycling wastewater saves fresh water daily for starch production. Excess methane can be used for electricity generation or distributed to the community. Implementing anaerobic reactors minimizes environmental pollution. The system boosts sustainability, lowering reliance on external water and energy sources. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by innovative integration of water recycling and biogas generation in starch industries. First application of CoLAR technology for energy self-sufficiency in tapioca and sago sectors. Demonstrates significant cost savings by reusing treated wastewater in production. Offers a scalable model for sustainable water and energy use in agro-industrial clusters. Contributes to reducing environmental impact through waste-to-energy conversion.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHORS]

When does international knowledge connectivity of global  cities attract R&D investment? The role of concentrated ownership through  organizational pipelines

By: R. Belderbos, G. Ho Lee, R. Mudambi, H. S. Du, D. Somers. Research Policy, DOI: 10.1016/j.respol.2024.105083, November 2024.

Abstract: “We argue that the degree of concentrated ownership of international knowledge connections of a city in the hands of a small number of MNEs reduces the potential for knowledge spillovers and has a negative influence on the attractiveness of a city for new R&D investments. Ownership concentration in international knowledge connections reduces the positive influence of two complementary characteristics of international knowledge connectivity: the international connectedness (“depth”) and the geographical diversity (“breadth”) of the cities' international knowledge networks. Our analysis of the location decisions for 3235 new cross-border R&D investments made by 1599 firms distributed across 71 global cities (2003–2016) provides support for these hypotheses.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHORS]

What drives global value chains of FDI at sub-national regions? Roles of  agglomeration economies

By: S. Kimino. European Planning Studies, DOI: 10.1080/09654313.2024.2422902, November 2024.

Abstract: “This study explores the intricate relationship between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and spatial knowledge within the European Union (EU) subnational regions. While existing research has examined this relationship, it often oversimplifies the complexities involved. This study aims to fill this gap by dissecting various types of inward FDI based on sectors, investor origins, and spatial knowledge forms. Using extensive data spanning over 13 years, the study employs negative binomial regression analysis to investigate 223 EU subnational regions. The findings reveal that localized specialization, urbanization, and population density play significant roles in attracting FDI, particularly in manufacturing and logistics. Conversely, capital cities tend to deter manufacturing-related FDI due to resource constraints. Moreover, the study identifies the importance of agglomeration economies, measured by urbanization, in driving FDI across different models given the knowledge spillovers and technological externalities found in densely populated areas. In light of these findings, tailored policies that account for diverse factors – such as regional agglomeration economies and strategic value chain activities – are essential. Recognizing the complexity of multinational business activities is crucial for designing effective policies aimed at reducing regional disparities within the EU.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transforming inter-organisational collaboration dynamics in regional  networks through digitalisation

By: K. Kryzhanivska, E. Albats, K. Blomqvist, A-L. Mention. Regional Studies, DOI: 10.1080/00343404.2024.2416225, November 2024.

Abstract: “Digitalisation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly transformed inter-organisational collaboration in regional networks. By analysing a regional network in Finland, this study unveils how the dynamics of inter-organisational collaboration have evolved over time. Based on longitudinal process research conducted during the period 2019–21, we find four major patterns of inter-organisational collaboration dynamics occurring in regional networks, thereby suggesting changes in scale, space and scope of collaborative interactions. Our research highlights how an imbalance between these patterns may culminate in a new collaboration divide alongside pre-existing digital and innovation divides. From this we propose conditions within those patterns that support innovation and regional resilience in times of a crisis and develop suggestions for regional policymakers and practitioners on how to bridge burgeoning divides within regional networks..” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHORS]