The global plant location decision

Chris D. Owen, Stephen P. Baker

Research output: Chapter in Book/Published conference outputConference publication

Abstract

The global plant location decision is important since it involves the allocation of significant resources and may influence the long term competitiveness of firms. The decision is also complex, taking into account a wide range of factors. The decision should involve the consideration of both international business issues as well as manufacturing strategy. Firms may be seeking access to markets, to low cost labour, or new skills and competencies. In the past there has been some emphasis on firms offshoring production to lower cost regions. Case studies from the authors’ experience of advising clients in this decision show that for ‘luxury’ products, firms have chosen to invest further capacity in home country engineering and manufacturing to maintain quality and brand integrity, despite the fact that these locations are higher cost. On the other hand, for ‘standard’ products, firms have located additional capacity closer to target markets to access lower costs.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAdvances in manufacturing technology XXVI
Subtitle of host publicationproceedings of the 10th International Conference on Manufacturing Research (ICMR2012)
EditorsTim Baines, Ben Clegg, David Harrison
PublisherGlasgow Caledonian University
Pages662-667
Number of pages6
Volume2
ISBN (Print)978-1-90586660-1
Publication statusPublished - 2012
Event10th International Conference on Manufacturing Research - Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Duration: 10 Sept 201213 Sept 2012

Conference

Conference10th International Conference on Manufacturing Research
Abbreviated titleICMR 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityBirmingham
Period10/09/1213/09/12
OtherIncorporating the 27 th National Conference on Manufacturing Research

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