Abstract
Purpose – The sudden arrival of Covid-19 severely disrupted the supply chain of Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) in Australia. This research examines the development of a geographical cluster which,
through the application of additive manufacturing (AM), responded to the PPE supply crisis.
Design/Methodology/approach - This longitudinal case study focuses on an AM cluster which was
developed to supply PPE in a responsive and flexible manner from 2019/ 2020. The study gathered data
over three stages of cluster evolution: pre, during and post peak Covid-19.
Findings – The type and nature of exchanges between organizations involved in the cluster established
important insights into success factors for cluster creation and development. Using an established
complexity framework, we identified the characteristics of establishing a cluster. The importance of
cluster alignment created initially by a common PPE supply goal led to an emerging commercial and
relational imperative to address the longer-term configuration after the disruption.
Originality/value – Covid-19 has rapidly and unexpectedly disrupted the supply chain for many industries.
Responding to challenges, businesses will investigate different pathways to improve their overall
resilience including on-/ near-shoring. Our results provide insights into how clusters are formed, grow,
and develop, and the differentiating factors that result in successful impacts of clusters on local
economies.
Practical Implications – Clusters can be a viable option for a technology-driven sector when there is “buzz”
that drives and rapidly diffuses knowledge to support cluster formation. This research identifies the
structural, socio-political and emergent dimensions, which need to be considered by stakeholders when
aiming at improving competitiveness using clusters.