Local economic development strategies for the manufacturing sectors of urban areas have tended to focus on either inward investment or the stimulation of new firms. This paper argues more attention should be focused upon existing large manufacturing operations. The introduction of new process technologies into existing establishments may enhance the competitiveness of an urban economy. Using data from a new survey of the larger metal-using establishments in the Sheffield economy the empirical work highlights the difficulties that can be encountered in the introduction of new process technology. The concluding section outlines a number of policy considerations which may indicate a way forward for local administrations seeking to encourage the introduction of new process technology into large plants in traditional manufacturing sectors.
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