Profile 6: Cluster Origins in Japan
In Japan the Komatsu machinery cluster evolved from the Komatsu Construction Company.
The machinery cluster evolved from a historical network of support and related
companies in the textile (silk in particular). Nakajima Aircraft and Fuji Heavy
industries sparked the development of the auto cluster in Ota. Original Equipment
Manufacturers in Ota provided continuous demand for parts, services and products.
The existence of a large assembler has provided a vertically structured sub-contracting
system. Following the development of the aircraft and automobile industries in
the first half of the 20th century, the area attracted a number of new entrants
and spin off’s in the 1950’s and 1960’s. The cluster is presently
structured hierarchically with more than 70 firms operating as first-tier, second
tier and third tier suppliers for Fuji Heavy Industries. Whilst this remains the
core assembler, many of Ota’s part manufacturers also trade with other auto
assemblers within the region and beyond. |
