Business Network and Locational Map of Fashion as a Creative Industry in Izmir

Abstract

In today’s global competitive environment, creativity and cultural production have become essential drivers of urban development. Competitiveness now derives from innovation and the creative class, supported by sectors such as fashion, design, media, architecture, and cultural institutions. Izmir provides an illustrative example, with efforts to cluster the fashion and textile industry around production and consumption. This research analyses the business networks and locational dynamics of the fashion industry in Izmir, using literature review and open-ended interviews. Data collection proceeded in two phases: the creation of a preliminary chart of components and functions, and the development of a detailed locational map. The findings reveal agglomeration patterns, inter-sectoral cooperation, and key challenges facing the sector. The study concludes by offering suggestions for strengthening the fashion industry in Izmir as part of the broader creative economy.