Delving into the technical textile phenomenon: networking strategies and innovation in mature clusters

Substantial empirical evidence corroborates the advantages brought about by spatial colocation and networking for firms' innovativeness in the textile industry. But firms benefit from these advantages depending on their portfolio of relationships. Consequently, cluster firms build their networks according to their specific characteristics in terms of resources and innovation activities. Within this framework, using social network analysis techniques, this study aims to identify the foundations of networking practices in textile clusters and to derive managerial and policy implications. Empirical evidence obtained in the Valencian textile cluster show how the profile and specificities of firm's innovation activities shape its relational practices. Most innovative firms focused on technical textiles show higher levels of internal resources and capabilities.