For the first selection of academic articles, please consult the following list.

The formation of country wineries networks for internationalization: an analysis of two new world wines regions.

By: Dalmoro, Marlon. Journal of Wine Research. Jun2013, Vol. 24 Issue 2, p96-111. 16p. 2 Diagrams, 7 Charts.

Abstract: The objective of this study is to understand the characteristics of winemakers' networks and their effect on the internationalization process of the wine industry. Case studies in two emerging wine export countries were developed and analyzed. The Brazilian network, Integrated Sector Project Wines from Brazil, and the Uruguayan network, Wines of Uruguay, were both analyzed. The purpose of these networks is to promote those countries' wineries in international markets and to develop a common organizational structure shared by all the network members; however, local influences, such as market size and antecedent characteristics, result in different network roles. In each case, the network acts as an aggregate in the internationalization process of affiliate companies and assists in establishing the image of each country as a wine producer. The formation of a winemakers' network has a positive effect on the internationalization of the winemaking industry. Moreover, public policies to support internationalization demonstrate to improve the international competitiveness of wine companies. This study improves the understanding of the benefits winemakers' networks provide New World wines and the impact those networks have on the internationalization process. The results provide insights for advancing winemakers' internationalization strategy and the industrial policies affecting wine.

Editorial.

By: Gretzinger, Susanne; Brown, Kerry; Freytag, Per Vagn. Management Revue. 2013, Vol. 24 Issue 2, p75-76. 2p.

Abstract: An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses various reports within the issue on topics including industry clusters, impact-factors on resource allocation, and how to gain competitive advantage related to firm clusters.

Balancing Firm and Network-based Resources to Gain Competitive Advantage: A Case Study of an Artisanal Musical Instruments Cluster in Germany.

By: Leick, Birgit. Management Revue. 2013, Vol. 24 Issue 2, p77-95. 19p.

Abstract: The question of whether firms gain competitiveness through local networks and clusters becomes more relevant than ever as globalization proceeds. This is particularly true for traditional and craft-based clusters, districts and business networks. A central question emerging for these types of networks is: (How) can they build competitive advantage using local production systems and network ties as core resources? The present article aims at shedding light on this issue by presenting a case study of an artisanal cluster operating in the manufacturing of classical musical instruments. Focusing on a resource-based perspective and using a qualitative research approach, the paper explores the critical resources necessary for generating competitive advantage through local networking. It critically investigates how competitive advantage is gained for the network and which are the drivers of sustaining competitive advantage in a dynamic view.

Social Capital Determinants of Preferential Resource Allocation in Regional Clusters.

By: Pulles, Niels J.; Schiele, Holger. Management Revue. 2013, Vol. 24 Issue 2, p96-113. 18p.

Abstract: Regional clusters are known to facilitate firms in achieving higher levels of competitive advantage. This observation suggests that cluster firms manage to obtain better competitive resources than firms outside the cluster. The strong social ties in regional clusters are considered to be a crucial factor in the resource exchange between cluster firms. In this paper, we integrate this social perspective from the cluster literature with a recent stream in the resource-based view (RBV) literature. This stream seeks to explain the phenomenon of preferential resource allocation. That is, how can firms obtain better resources from a resource environment that is shared with competitors? Although preferential resource allocation has revealed to be a relevant concept, little is known about its actual antecedents. We introduce a conceptual framework that builds on the social interactions among cluster firms to explain the concept of preferential resource allocation. More specifically, we develop propositions on the antecedents of preferential resource allocation by building on the structural, relational, and cognitive dimensions of social capital theory, and a firm' s embeddedness in a regional cluster. In so doing, this paper provides insights that may contribute to a better understanding of the competitive advantage of cluster firms, and it opens onto current streams in the RBV literature.

Bridging the Institutional Void: An Analytical Concept to Develop Valuable Cluster Services.

By: Schrammel, Tine. Management Revue. 2013, Vol. 24 Issue 2, p114-132. 19p.

Abstract: Public policy and cluster management face a common challenge in developing sustainable clusters. Many clusters report difficulties acquiring membership fees once the governmental subsidies come to an end, which brings doubts as to the cluster management's capabilities and likewise to the public policy design. This paper applies the theory of institutional voids and elaborates a theoretical framework to identify cluster services. It shows that analyzing the specific institutional environment of the cluster enables the identification of valuable cluster services. As the identified institutional voids impose a competitive disadvantage on the companies, such services will increase their willingness to pay. Therewith, the article combines cluster literature and institutional theory to draw synergies on participation incentives.

Facilitating Different Types of Clusters.

By: Ingstrup, Mads Bruun. Management Revue. 2013, Vol. 24 Issue 2, p133-150. 18p.

Abstract: This paper focuses on cluster facilitators and their efforts in facilitating the development of clusters. At present, the vast majority of literature presents a uniform image of cluster facilitators despite the fact that different types of clusters influence their role and purpose. Thus, the aim of this paper is to explore how the roles and purposes of cluster facilitators change when facilitating various cluster types, and the impact of those changes on the cluster facilitation performed. The findings show that cluster facilitators in Marshallian/Italian industrial district type of clusters play the role of match makers and organisers; in the Hub-and-spoke district type of clusters, the cluster facilitators perform the roles of developer and organiser; cluster facilitators in the Satellite industrial platform type of clusters are promoters and organisers; and in the State-anchored industrial district type of clusters, the cluster facilitators fulfil the roles of integrator and organiser. This conclusion is based on a multiple case study as well as on a selection of literature on clusters and cluster facilitation.

Clusters as absorbers and diffusers of knowledge.

By: JANKOWSKA, Barbara; PIETRZYKOWSKI, Maciej. Poznan University of Economics Review. 2013, Vol. 13 Issue 1, p68-88. 21p. 2 Charts, 8 Graphs.

Abstract: The last two decades have been characterized by rapid developments in networking and clustering. The first clusters emerged spontaneously, led by internal forces oriented towards competition. Temporary clusters are much more dynamic, searching for other sources of competitive advantage, and cross national borders. This paper is an attempt to identify the effects of knowledge spillovers and knowledge transfer within regional business networks, especially business clusters. These effects are associated with the innovations which appear within such networks and clusters. The paper indicates those barriers and solutions that support innovativeness within the networks under study. Knowledge transfer within business networks that shape the innovative environment in the Wielkopolska region has been described using both a theoretical and practical approach. The findings and conclusions of the research provide an opportunity to increase business efficiency within business networks. 

Cluster Emergence and Network Evolution: A Longitudinal Analysis of the Inventor Network in Sophia-Antipolis.

By: Ter Wal, Anne L.J. Regional Studies. May2013, Vol. 47 Issue 5, p651-668. 18p. 1 Chart, 7 Graphs.

Abstract: TerWalA. L. J. Cluster emergence and network evolution: a longitudinal analysis of the inventor network in Sophia-Antipolis,Regional Studies. It is increasingly acknowledged that clusters do not necessarily exhibit networks of local collective learning. Through a case study of Sophia-Antipolis in France, this study investigates to what extent networks of collective learning emerged throughout the growth of the business park. A longitudinal analysis of the inventor networks of its two main sectors reveals that a local network of collective learning emerged only in Information Technology and not in the Life Sciences. Through the creation of spin-offs and high-technology start-up firms, the initial dominance of large multinationals decreased only in Information Technology. This suggests that small firms play an important role in establishing local networks.

Recent research on competitiveness and clusters: what are the implications for regional policy?

By: Christian Ketels, Cambridge Journal of Regions, Economy and Society 2013; doi: 10.1093/cjres/rst008

Abstract: This paper reviews implications of recent research on competitiveness and clusters for regions and regional policy. A new framing of competitiveness clarifies the role of regions. Its empirical findings align well with the literature on drivers of regional performance, but there are opportunities for mutual learning. A step-change in the availability of data on clusters and cluster policies has enabled new research approaches. Clusters are shown to have a close association with regional economic performance and evolution. Cluster policies are largely focused on strengthening existing agglomerations, not creating new ones. The paper discussed several practical insights for regional policy makers.

Australia's Competitiveness: From Lucky Country to Competitive Country

By: Michael Enright and Richard Petty, Wiley, 1 edition (May 2013)

Abstract: In this overview of Australia's economy, Michael Enright and Richard Petty look at the data behind the news reports to offer a complete view of Australia's stable and wealthy economy. The book compares Australia with other similarly sized OECD economies as well as other Asia-Pacific economies and looks at fifteen international sources of data on competitiveness. It features a large-scale survey on Australian companies and offers deep insight on the country's future in terms of economics and economic policy.