Deconstructing cluster identity: place branding and trademarking by cluster organizations

Abstract

The paper defines ‘cluster identity’ as an intangible attribute of clusters comprised of place branding and trademarking by cluster organizations, respectively anchored in a ‘logic of belonging’ and a ‘logic of similarity’. We expand the taxonomy of proximities and their dynamics according to their belonging/similarity logic and their tangible/intangible nature. As illustrated in the context of the Bordeaux wine region of France, we find that a prevailing logic of belonging leads to reputational inertia. We propose that trademarking by cluster organizations can facilitate the adaptation of cluster identity, thereby emphasizing its potential as an instrument for cluster managers to engage in community-building.