Title: Clustering and the internationalisation strategies of SMEs in the media industry

Authors: Gary A.S. Cook, Naresh R. Pandit

Addresses: University of Liverpool Management School, Chatham Street, Liverpool L69 7ZH, UK. ' Norwich Business School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK

Abstract: This paper draws together three strands of literature – those on clustering, entrepreneurship and internationalisation, examining the relationship between these three in promoting firm formation and growth within clusters. The evidence drawn on includes large-scale econometric models based on two unique data sets, an in-depth interview survey and a questionnaire survey. The key conclusions are, firstly, that strong clusters promote entrepreneurship, which in turn promotes cluster strength in a self-reinforcing dynamic. Secondly, some firms are better able than others to benefit from cluster location due to superior firm competencies and absorptive capacity. Thirdly, cluster strength contributes to the ability of entrepreneurial firms to expand overseas. Importing activity is also extensive. Internationalisation is one dynamic feedback loop in cluster strength, whereby increased internationalisation yields benefits to firms which spill over more widely in the cluster, and leads to further internationalisation. The Resource-Based View (RBV) emerges as an important theoretical framework linking cluster theory and international entrepreneurship.

Keywords: SME clusters; broadcasting; entrepreneurship; internationalisation strategies; media industry; small and medium-sized enterprises; SMEs; globalisation; resource-based view; RBV.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2009.024574

International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business, 2009 Vol.3 No.3, pp.306 - 330

Published online: 10 Apr 2009 *

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