Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 23 ISSUE 2
Written by Diana Cosmina CHIFOR, Lucian C. MAIER, Felix H. ARION

The existing literature related to the cluster concept has been based on solid research from A. Marshall's theory of industrial districts to M. Porter's cluster concept, with location being the main factor on which the two built their premises. Considering that the cluster model has evolved over time, this paper aims to study the dynamism of this model, taking into account geographic concentration as an essential element influencing the emergence of clusters. Then it moves on to novel aspects, such as the role of clusters in promoting new technologies or innovations and the cluster's contribution to increasing the competitiveness of companies or even regional competitiveness. The methodological approach of this research consists in systematically reviewing the literature on clusters, the evolution of the model, the importance of geographical proximity and clusters’ impact on growth, the elevation of innovation processes and competitiveness of companies and regions, but also the involvement of clusters in the implementation of policies. The paper provides a general picture of the dynamics of the concept by summarizing and integrating several concepts treated by other researchers in an in-depth manner. Our findings reveal the importance of the proximity factor for industries that are part of clusters, along with the fact that over time, globalization has imposed a trend towards an approach that crosses regional and national borders.

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