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Explaining Spatial Variation in Business Performance in Great Britain

Author

Listed:
  • Don J. Webber
  • Martin Boddy
  • Anthony Plumridge

Abstract

Labour productivity rates are known to vary across UK regions. Although some empirical studies seek to explain the source of these differences using aggregate, regional data we argue that this may be inappropriate because labour productivity rates are firm-specific. This paper employs cross-sectional regression analysis and British, firm-level data to identify empirically whether firm-level labour productivity rates are affected by factors that vary spatially. It focuses in particular on a measure of "economic potential" based on a gravity-type model of economic potential. Initial estimates suggest that economic potential is important but its impact diminishes with the introduction of further explanatory variables. Nevertheless, even once interaction terms are included the effect of economic potential remains important. It suggests the clear need to take account of space in firm-level regressions.

Suggested Citation

  • Don J. Webber & Martin Boddy & Anthony Plumridge, 2007. "Explaining Spatial Variation in Business Performance in Great Britain," European Journal of Comparative Economics, Cattaneo University (LIUC), vol. 4(2), pages 319-332, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:liu:liucej:v:4:y:2007:i:2:p:319-332
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    File URL: https://ejce.liuc.it/18242979200702/182429792007040208.pdf
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Mertens, Matthias & Mueller, Steffen, 2022. "The East-West German gap in revenue productivity:Just a tale of output prices?," Journal of Comparative Economics, Elsevier, vol. 50(3), pages 815-831.
    2. Steve Talbot, 2016. "Creating a smart rural economy through smart specialisation: The microsphere model," Local Economy, London South Bank University, vol. 31(8), pages 892-919, December.
    3. David Morris & Enrico Vanino & Carlo Corradini, 2020. "Effect of regional skill gaps and skill shortages on firm productivity," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 52(5), pages 933-952, August.

    More about this item

    Keywords

    Productivity per Employee; Economic Potential; HM Treasury's key Drivers;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • R38 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Real Estate Markets, Spatial Production Analysis, and Firm Location - - - Government Policy
    • R58 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Regional Government Analysis - - - Regional Development Planning and Policy

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