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Understanding the role of subsectoral structure in inter-regional sectoral productivity disparities

Author

Listed:
  • Adam Brown

    (Cambridge Econometrics)

  • Jen Nelles

    (Oxford Brookes University)

  • Alexander Frost

    (Cambridge Econometrics)

  • Michalis Papazoglou

    (Oxford Brookes University)

  • Tim Vorley

    (Oxford Brookes University)

Abstract

Spatial variations in productivity across the UK continue to be a challenge. Exploring the roots of differences in productivity between places can make an important contribution to the design of policy responses. This study focuses on the inter-regional subsectoral structure and examines whether the different mix of activities that get aggregated under the sectoral headings could provide insights into the reasons for the regional productivity disparities, drawing upon employment data at the 5-digit SIC level for the English LEP areas. Our analysis reveals that subsectoral compositions can substantially determine a region’s sectoral productivity performance, offering important clues to our understanding of inter-regional disparities.

Suggested Citation

  • Adam Brown & Jen Nelles & Alexander Frost & Michalis Papazoglou & Tim Vorley, 2025. "Understanding the role of subsectoral structure in inter-regional sectoral productivity disparities," The Annals of Regional Science, Springer;Western Regional Science Association, vol. 74(2), pages 1-23, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:anresc:v:74:y:2025:i:2:d:10.1007_s00168-025-01378-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s00168-025-01378-2
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • E24 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment - - - Employment; Unemployment; Wages; Intergenerational Income Distribution; Aggregate Human Capital; Aggregate Labor Productivity
    • R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes
    • R12 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Size and Spatial Distributions of Regional Economic Activity; Interregional Trade (economic geography)

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