European markets and the strategic roles of multinational enterprise subsidiaries in the UK

The article reviews the market orientation of foreign MNE subsidiaries in the UK, and especially the degree to which they are part of a wider European supply network. Evidence is provided on the subsidiaries' overall export orientation and their involvement in intra-group trade and supply of intermediate goods. We assess the importance of various market areas (EU, non-EU Europe, outside Europe). The varying relevance of these markets to UK-based subsidiaries from different home countries (USA, Japan, Europe) is discussed. Finally, the manner in which market orientation relates to the wider strategic positioning of subsidiaries in their MNE groups' operations is analysed.