ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the entry of MNEs in a cluster, and the role the former play in shaping cluster positioning into GVC, are strongly influenced by the stage of cluster evolution. MNEs may play a role during the initial stage of cluster life cycle, by giving rise to the cluster and building place-anchored value chains. During cluster maturity, MNEs can benefit from the local pool of knowledge, and activate a growth path by acquiring high-competences firms and their localized subcontracting chains. We illustrate these processes through a comparative case study of four clusters located in Italy, China, and Romania.
