Lead markets and pioneer advantage

Pioneers are described as the technical leaders of an industry and they have an advantage because they have the most sophisticated knowledge of, skills in and experience with new technology (e.g., Robinson, Fomell 1985 Urban et al. 1986). If pioneers do not respond to lead markets, however, but rather to idiosyncratic or other lag markets, they cannot leverage their advantages and often fail. If a firm does not focus innovation design on the lead market conditions, it gains little from 

Consequently and in accordance with the lead user concept, DaimlerChrysler AG of Germany holds a minority stake in and co-operates greatly with McLaren, one of the most successful racing car specialists, outside their Formula I relationship. 

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