Work, places and industries in the post-COVID-19 economy

This special collection investigates the significant transformations in work, industries and places driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing polycrisis context which have profoundly reshaped labour markets and regional economies. Beyond the discourse surrounding remote work productivity, these shifts have driven substantial changes in societal dynamics, fundamentally altering daily lives in different local and regional settings. These changes are linked to wider structural transitions, including green, digital and demographic transformations, which further deepen socio-economic inequalities both among and within regions. The collection analyses the long-term implications of these transformations on regional economies, providing critical insights into the future of labour markets and workplace environments. It addresses key questions about the spatial distribution of work and its effects on regional development, particularly emphasising how remote and hybrid work models are redefining local labour markets and the geography of employment. Contributions to this collection cover diverse topics organised into three themes: (1) the evolution of work and living practices post-pandemic; (2) the emergence of new workspaces, such as collaborative workspaces, and their geographical implications; and (3) the regional impact of flexible work practices and the role of integrated regional policies. Collectively, these contributions underscore the necessity for adaptable, place-based strategies that foster sustainability from both social and environmental perspectives.