Cluster Mark
The recently published paper New Industry, New Jobs states that the Government has to be active in providing strategic support for business and industry to ensure the country is able to compete successfully in the future world economy. The collaboration of businesses and associated institutions with common interests in a Cluster, can result in a more competitive and productive environment. Policy makers can use cluster initiatives, when needed, to ensure such benefits are maximised. The “Cluster Mark” Awards provides the opportunity to identify, recognise and share the best in UK’s manufacturing cluster activity
What are Clusters?
Professor Michael Porter an acknowledged authority defines clusters as:
“geographic concentrations of inter-connected companies, specialised suppliers, service providers, firms in related industries, and associated institutions (for example universities, standards agencies, and trade associations) in particular fields that compete but also co-operate.”
A cluster, therefore, goes wider than the typical supply chain of a company, since it can involve businesses which are normally in direct competition coming together to work on issues of common interest.
What are the “Cluster Mark” Awards?
This initiative was set out in the Manufacturing Strategy 2008 and is intended to “raise the profile of manufacturers involved in the best clusters and support international marketing of local strengths.” As such the competition is only open to clusters which are focussed on manufacturing.
Why can’t all sectors apply?
The “Cluster Mark” is being introduced to support the Manufacturing Strategy and as such is primarily aimed at recognising manufacturing excellence. We recognise, however, that manufacturing is a process and a cluster will contain a range of companies quite possibly from different sectors.
How do I enter our Cluster for an Award?
Entry to the national Cluster Mark competition will be through a regional selection process. Entries need to be submitted to the RDA or Devolved Administration in which the applicant is located. Each region will put forward 2 nominations for the national competition. The nature of the selection process will vary from region to region but all will be open and based on the standard entry form and guidance which can be found on right hand side of this page.
Full details of the each regions selection process can be found on the respective RDA and Devolved Administration websites.
Regional contacts
What are the benefits of receiving a Cluster Mark? Is there a prize?
The main benefits of receiving either a regional or national “Cluster Mark” should be seen in terms of credibility, public relations, marketing and staff morale, and could also have direct impacts on the overall performance of the cluster. The “Cluster Mark” is an independent and prestigious endorsement of the quality of the cluster. Such an endorsement will serve as an excellent sales and marketing tool helping to attract inward investment and engendering staff with a sense of identity, confidence and pride throughout the cluster.
In addition, to these benefits the national winners will be announced by a BIS Minister at a gala dinner early in 2010. Winners will be able to use the “Cluster Mark Winner” logo on their promotional material (the branding suite will be provided) and will be included in a range of publicity opportunities over the year.
Where can I find out more?
For questions relating to the national Cluster Mark competition or the Cluster Mark in general please contact Simon Jones by email or directly on 020 7215 2686.Any queries relating to the regional selection processes please get in touch with the regional contact point directly.
Regional contacts
