Regional concentration in multiplant enterprises

Abstract

The spatial development of multiplant enterprises is characterized by expansion and contraction. Contraction, i.e. the closure of branch plants, in four industries is examined on the basis of material from SW Germany, Switzerland and N Italy. Several periods of varying intensity are identified. The relative location of closed plants to the main plant is measured. Factors behind the closures and their spatial effects are discussed. The topics are elucidated as an aggregate, by region and by industry.