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Interfirm Information Linkages in an Economically Disadvantaged Region: An Empirical Perspective from Metropolitan Buffalo

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  • A MacPherson

    (Canada-United States Trade Centre, Department of Geography, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14261, USA)

Abstract

The external information linkages of industrial firms in two sectors of Buffalo's manufacturing base—medical instruments, and chemicals—are examined. Survey data are presented which indicate a positive role for imported technical services in local product innovation, export activity, and technology diffusion. The data reveal that firms which import a substantial proportion of their external technical inputs hold a competitive advantage over their counterparts which depend solely on local suppliers. The data also reveal that larger manufacturers are more likely to import technical services than smaller firms. Evidence from the sample is then contrasted against recent empirical streams in the literature on producer services, regional growth, and industrial innovation. It is argued that urban centres with weak producer service endowment may in some instances import key inputs from other regions. On a more cautious note, it is suggested that this option may not be feasible for small manufacturers, many of which lack the in-house resources required for nonlocal information search. The paper concludes with a discussion of the extent to which interregional trade in producer services can act as an equalising force in regional innovation potential.

Suggested Citation

  • A MacPherson, 1991. "Interfirm Information Linkages in an Economically Disadvantaged Region: An Empirical Perspective from Metropolitan Buffalo," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 23(4), pages 591-606, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:23:y:1991:i:4:p:591-606
    DOI: 10.1068/a230591
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Debresson, Chris, 1989. "Breeding innovation clusters: A source of dynamic development," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 17(1), pages 1-16, January.
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    Cited by:

    1. Yifei Sun, 2000. "Spatial Distribution of Patents in China," Regional Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 34(5), pages 441-454.
    2. Izushi, Hiro, 2003. "Impact of the length of relationships upon the use of research institutes by SMEs," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 32(5), pages 771-788, May.

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