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When accumulation pressures meet regulatory institutions: A comparison in logistics

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  • Valeria Pulignano
  • Paul Thompson
  • Nadja Doerflinger

Abstract

This comparative study explores whether and how institutions can become a source of influence on accumulation dynamics in the labor process. It examines how employer strategies for the realization of value within the warehousing, parcel, and transport business divisions of a lead logistics multinational are operationalized in Germany, Belgium, and Sweden. Findings indicate within (and across) country variation in the operationalization paths we identify: compliance, avoidance, and exit. We explain the cross-country variation of each path by pointing to the strategies and negotiation processes pertaining to the usage of flexible labor at each workplace. We also illustrate that this usage relates to the mechanisms of optimization by standardization and of relational management used by employers to contain costs within the scope of each division’s managerial regime.

Suggested Citation

  • Valeria Pulignano & Paul Thompson & Nadja Doerflinger, 2022. "When accumulation pressures meet regulatory institutions: A comparison in logistics," European Journal of Industrial Relations, , vol. 28(3), pages 273-294, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:eurjou:v:28:y:2022:i:3:p:273-294
    DOI: 10.1177/09596801211073599
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Valeria Pulignano & Nikolaus Hammer & Nadja Doerflinger, 2021. "Explaining Employment Effects in Multipolar Value Chains: A Cross‐National Study on Soft Drinks and Dairy Manufacturing in Europe," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 59(1), pages 25-51, March.
    2. Kochan, Thomas A. & McKersie, Robert B. & Cappelli, Peter., 1983. "Strategic choice and industrial relations theory and practice," Working papers 1506-83., Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Sloan School of Management.
    3. Nguyen, Hong-Oanh & Tongzon, Jose, 2010. "Causal nexus between the transport and logistics sector and trade: The case of Australia," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 17(3), pages 135-146, May.
    4. Valeria Pulignano & Paul Thompson & Nadja Doerflinger, 2020. "Workplace change and institutional experimentation: a case study of service-sector work in Europe," Transfer: European Review of Labour and Research, , vol. 26(2), pages 175-187, May.
    5. Edwards, P. K., 1990. "The politics of conflict and consent : How the labor contract really works," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 13(1), pages 41-61, January.
    6. Jodi L. Short & Michael W. Toffel & Andrea R. Hugill, 2020. "Improving Working Conditions in Global Supply Chains: The Role of Institutional Environments and Monitoring Program Design," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 73(4), pages 873-912, August.
    7. Chiara Benassi & Lisa Dorigatti, 2020. "Out of Sight, Out of Mind: The Challenge of External Work Arrangements for Industrial Manufacturing Unions in Germany and Italy," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 34(6), pages 1027-1044, December.
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