Clusters and supply chain management: the Amish experience
International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management
ISSN: 0960-0035
Article publication date: 1 April 2006
Abstract
Purpose
To demonstrate the linkage between Porter's cluster theory and supply chain management, and provide evidence of their potential joint positive impact on competitiveness and firm performance.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper examines the linkage between cluster theory and supply chain management using data from a case study of the Amish furniture industry in Homes County, Ohio, USA.
Findings
Using the Amish furniture industry and a representative furniture firm as examples, the paper shows the positive impact of operating within an integrated supply chain in a geographically concentrated cluster.
Research limitations/implications
Use of a single case study approach limits the generalizability of the findings; the paper recommends further study of linkages in other industries and locations.
Practical implications
The study suggests that firms build competitive advantage by initially focusing primarily on local resources when selecting supply chain partners, rather than looking only for low cost advantage through distant sourcing.
Originality/value
This paper adds to the literature on business linkages by proposing an expanded definition of clusters as geographical concentrations of competing supply networks.
Keywords
Citation
DeWitt, T., Giunipero, L.C. and Melton, H.L. (2006), "Clusters and supply chain management: the Amish experience", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 36 No. 4, pp. 289-308. https://doi.org/10.1108/09600030610672055
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited