The importance of place, space and culture in the development of an industrial agglomeration in Ireland: the furniture industry in Co. Monaghan

This article examines place, space and culture as factors in the development of industrial agglomerations. We argue that they are important concepts for industrial analysis which have, in part, been omitted by traditional neo-classical economists. We show the applicability of the framework in an investigation of the wooden furniture industrial district in County Monaghan, Ireland. The conclusion is that geographical location and concentration, external linkages with markets and suppliers, and the local entrepreneurial culture or professional milieu all provide pointers to the understanding of this industrial development. We briefly suggest that this conclusion may also apply to global industries.