ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the dynamics of industrial systems worldwide takes a Multinational Enterprise (MNE) viewpoint and examines the development of the MNE within the production system. The key areas of the USA, continental Western Europe and Japan are markets and centres for technology in which MNEs are seeking to achieve significant presence. Access to growth markets in developing economies is important. The development of the MNE is examined in relation to its spatial dimensions and perspectives which change over time and are a determining factor shaping company strategies. Paint products and market segments range from low to high technology and from local to international and world markets. Industrial paints cover a wide spectrum of industry, such as metal-using, wood, plastics and generally use low technology. Paint trade between industrial market economies accounts for up to 5 per cent of production and has been rising slightly due to increase in demand for high technology paints.
