Multimodal infrastructure, transport networks and the international relocation of firms

This paper outlines the relevance of multimodal transport infrastructure fo r the locational behaviour of multinational firms. Particular attention is given to foot-loose firms from the viewpoint of desired infrastructural pro visions. An empirical analysis is used to highlight the importance of infra structure networks for long-range freight transport and for policy strategi es aiming at coping with the phenomenon of the multinational firm. The resu lts indicate that financial barriers and institutional inertia impede the d esired development of intermodal and terminal infrastructure, whereas multi national firms recently settled in the Netherlands experience much less bar riers in infrastructural provisions.