Balancing between thick and thin regional identities: The case of De Achterhoek, The Netherlands

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to assess the thinning notion in a case study while acknowledging the hybrid nature of regional identities with the past. In The Netherlands, a process can be observed in which regions actively claim their uniqueness to ensure their development and relevance. It seems that regions adopt similar modern labels in their regional marketing, suggesting a so-called thinning of identities away from traditional thick identities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a content analysis of promotional texts and interviews with politicians to analyse the context, aims and perceptions of the regional marketing. It stresses an approach which sees identities as balanced between the present and the past.

Findings

In line with the thinning notion, this case study shows indeed a creation of new thin elements and an exclusion of traditional thick elements in the regional marketing. However, it was also found that the marketing entails creative links between both characteristics, which suggest a tempering of the thinning notion.

Practical implications

The results show that linking traditional with utilitarian elements might capacitate traditional regions to allocate the resources for regional marketing more effectively.

Originality/value

Despite the fact that studies acknowledge identities as neither thick nor thin, the thinning notion seems to examine both elements as a dichotomy within regions, which does not follow the nature of identities as interconnected in time. Then, the value of this study must be found in the way it goes behind such a dichotomy by presenting an integrative analysis of thin and thick characteristics.

Citation

Hofstede, H. (2014), "Balancing between thick and thin regional identities: The case of De Achterhoek, The Netherlands", Journal of Place Management and Development, Vol. 7 No. 2, pp. 126-140. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPMD-07-2013-0019