Development of a cluster framework for tire industry with its application to a local region by pursuing supply chain and freight village approaches

Abstract

Since the turn of century, the concept of clustering has become a central theme for analysing the competitiveness of nations, industries and locations. As a tire manufacturing agglomeration location, Kocaeli region presents the potential to be a strong clustering area. Hence, in the research study, Kocaeli region has been investigated if it presents regional clustering characteristics, spesifically, in terms of supply chain, logistics and additional value development areas. For this aim, a conceptual framework was developed and it was applied to region's spesific conditions as a case study. During the study, both of quantitative and qualitative methods were used together to support each other. Focus group study, location quotient calculation and a survey application are among the techniques utilized. Based on the cumulative results obtained, cluster structure exists in the region and it is beneficial for the regions's competitiveness. This research study contributes to the literature as being the first study in the tire sector via a clustering approach which takes into account the three orientations.Key Words: Cluster, Agglomeration, Tire Location, Supply Chain, Logistics