Development strategy for the media cluster Belgium

Assignment

How to strengthen the competitiveness and how to exploit the growth potential of the media cluster in the Brussels region, i.e. Mechelen-Vilvoorde.

Project summary

The media cluster in the Mechelen/Vilvoorde region defines the media sector in Flanders. Both cities locate numerous (cross) media companies from different parts of the economic value chain. But the media sector is also characterized by high levels of competition, strong dynamics in terms of start-ups and outsourcing and new developments with high impact such as introduction of video on demand platforms like Netflix. In this dynamic environment, the Mechelen/Vilvoorde region has asked Buck Consultants International (together with the Antwerp Management School) to develop a strategy on the one hand to strengthen the competitiveness and on the other hand to exploit the growth potential of the media cluster in the Mechelen/Vilvoorde region.

Our approach

In order to compose a successful cluster development strategy, a three-step approach was used. First, economic and spatial analyses as well as a SWOT analysis of the media cluster in the region were made. BCI used quantitative data about the location, number and size of businesses, employment and turnover. For an in-depth SWOT analysis, we consulted 25 companies via focus groups and interviews.

Step two consisted of an international benchmark of five media clusters: Manchester (UK), Hilversum (The Netherlands), Cologne (Germany), Amsterdam (The Netherlands) and Berlin (Germany). What can be learned from these regions? Which factors explain successes and/or failures in the development of the media clusters in these regions? Building on the groundwork of steps one and two, in step three BCI compiled an action plan dedicated to the successful development of the media cluster in the Mechelen/Vilvoorde region.

Result

A cluster development strategy for the media cluster in the Mechelen/Vilvoorde region that includes actions on topics such as:

• Community and networks
• Knowledge and innovation
• Human Capital
• Business climate and infrastructure
• Funding and capital

These five program lines include detailed actions regarding organization, budget and planning.