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Inter-firm power relations and working conditions under new production models

Author

Listed:
  • María J Paz
  • Mario Rísquez

    (Complutense University of Madrid, Spain)

  • María E Ruiz-Gálvez

    (Rey Juan Carlos University, Spain)

Abstract

In investigating recent changes to the automotive industry production process, such as modularisation, our work emphasises the process of fragmentation of production as a configuring element of inter-firm power relationships, and as an explanatory element in working conditions. From a theoretical framework focused on power relations, we analyse by way of a selected case study how the capabilities of companies and their network positions, together with the agency of labour, shape the power relations that influence the evolution of working conditions. The study does indeed find relevant changes to inter-firm relationships, for example, within networks of assemblers and suppliers, but without a consequent re-balancing of power. This finding serves to explain differences in the evolution of working conditions between distinct companies, these conditions being fully functional to a strategy for profitability and thus difficult to reverse. JEL Codes: J31, L14, L62

Suggested Citation

  • María J Paz & Mario Rísquez & María E Ruiz-Gálvez, 2022. "Inter-firm power relations and working conditions under new production models," The Economic and Labour Relations Review, , vol. 33(1), pages 138-157, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecolab:v:33:y:2022:i:1:p:138-157
    DOI: 10.1177/1035304620982705
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Automotive sector; industrial organisations; industrial relations; inter-firm relations; production networks; working conditions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • L14 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Transactional Relationships; Contracts and Reputation
    • L62 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing - - - Automobiles; Other Transportation Equipment; Related Parts and Equipment

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