Dynamic Transformations of an Indigenous Market Cluster: The Leatherworking Industry in Niger

Abstract

Extending scholarship on industry clusters, this paper reconsiders marketing and development opportunities in less developed nations. Recent literature suggests a set of a priori themes regarding cluster efficiencies, governance, and performance. These a priori themes are examined using the extended case method, analyses of longitudinal, ethnographic data collected from an indigenous leatherworking cluster in West Africa. This research assists in identifying local clusters with global potential. It also suggests leveraging foreign direct investments by identifying boundary-spanning firms in local clusters. In sum, the paper extends the industrial cluster concept in several ways with significant input for global marketing and demonstrates the value of longitudinal analyses in assessing cluster vibrancy. 9/9/2003 1In an era of globalization and growing competition in developed market economies, it is desirable to develop theoretical and practical models to leverage strategic opportunities in local

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