(A Cluster Example: Ezine Cheese Industry)

Abstract

Purpose – The aim of the study is to determine the cluster network in companies producing Ezine cheese in Çanakkale; operational performance, quality performance, new product development performance, general firm performance, local brand awareness and its effects on local brand loyalty and the role of cluster innovation on these relationships. Design/methodology/approach – In this study, a questionnaire was applied to 113 participants in the manager position with comprehensive knowledge on both firm and sector in Ezine cheese producer companies operating in Çanakkale. SPSS Statistics 22.00 program was used to analyze the data. Findings – According to the findings obtained as a result of the analyzes, the cluster network positively affects the operational, quality, new product development, general performances, local brand awareness and local brand loyalty of the companies, and the innovation activities carried out by the companies within the scope of the cluster positively affect all these relationships and play a conditional variable role. Discussion – The innovation activities developed by the companies that produce ezine cheese as a result of their interactions with each other thanks to the cluster mostly affect the companies' own performance positively. Therefore, the benefits of the relationships and the competition established between the companies within the scope of the cluster and the cluster are seen.