Technological competition in the packaging market

Abstract

This paper analyses the dynamic features of the innovation process by examining technological competition in the drinks packaging market in Spain over a 20 - year period. Specifically the stud y compares the two properties that, according to the evolutionist approach, characterise the process of dissemination and competition among alternative technologies performing one and the same function. As a result, the paper shows that in this market the process of innovation is (1) path - dependent and (2) partially irreversible.