EMCC publications
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- 'The role of competence and qualification development in fostering workforce mobility'
'The role of competence and qualification development in fostering workforce mobility' is the theme of the next EMCC company network seminar to be organised in cooperation with the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop), on 9-10 November in Thessaloniki. The seminar will look at the need for a better recognition of qualifications across the EU, and the need for companies to invest in lifelong learning schemes for employees, to boost occupational workforce mobility in sectors and in enterprises. The event will contribute to the activities of the European Year of Workers' Mobility 2006.
- Achieving gender balance - strategies for competitiveness
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored corporate practices leading to a better work-life balance for women and men, while also contributing to enhanced competitiveness and human resource management models in European countries. The seminar ‘Achieving gender balance - strategies for competitiveness’ was held in Lisbon, Portugal, on 18-19 November 2004. Four companies from Portugal, Denmark, France, and the United Kingdom (an SME in publishing and printing, a public/private consultancy firm, a multinational of the food and drink sector and a public health authority) presented both professional and personal experiences to an audience of 42 participants from 14 EU countries.
- Achieving gender balance - strategies for competitiveness
The final EMCC company network seminar for 2004 focuses on ‘Achieving gender balance - strategies for competitiveness’. The seminar will explore corporate practices leading to a better work-life balance for women and men, while also contributing to enhanced competitiveness and human resource management models in European companies. The Portuguese Vocational Training Centre for Trade (CECOA) will co-organise this event in Lisbon, Portugal, on 18-19 November 2004. A background paper outlines the main legislative developments in the EU and work done by the Foundation in this field.
- Analysis of support measures for business creation following restructuring
Traditionally, restructuring processes were considered to be mainly about job losses. However, in recent years, increasing attention has been paid to new business creation following restructuring. This report analyses, in detail, the critical elements that positively and negatively affect business creation and entrepreneurship following economic restructuring. It also provides examples of and strategies for business creation initiatives following restructuring in companies in six European Union Member States, identifying some important lessons to be learnt from these case studies.
- Anticipating change
Technology, globalisation, demography, consumer demands and choices all contribute to making today’s society one of accelerating change. This information sheet provides a brief overview of the tools used by the European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC) to support the change anticipation process.
- Background paper on gender balance
If the EU is to achieve the Lisbon employment targets (70% overall - 60% for women) by 2010, it is vital to ensure greater participation of women in the labour market. This paper outlines the main legislative developments in the EU concerning gender policies and initiatives in recent years. It has been developed as part of the EMCC Company Network Seminar ‘Achieving gender balance - strategies for competitiveness’ in Lisbon on 18-19 November 2004. It also highlights the work done by the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions in this field.
- Background information on ICT as a driver of change in the graphics and media sector
This research study examined how information and communication technologies (ICT) have driven change in the graphics and media industries in the areas of competitiveness, work organisation, employment and skills/qualifications over the last ten years. The overview report sets out the themes, scope and definitions for an in-depth analysis of five sub-sectors: equipment and materials suppliers; advertising agencies; printers; publishers and the audiovisual industries.
- Biomedical healthcare industry - visions of the future
This second article in the Sector Futures series on the biomedical healthcare sector focuses on the main factors shaping the present and future of the industry. It assesses the major trends and drivers, and evaluates different scenarios for the biomedical healthcare industry. The article also examines why the European biomedical healthcare industry is lagging behind the US, and is facing increasing competition from companies in developing markets.
- Biomedical healthcare industry - policy issues and major challenges
The third and final article in the series about biomedical healthcare discusses policies that could enhance the international competitiveness of the European biomedical healthcare industry. In particular, it looks at issues related to bioethics, globalisation, economic growth and employment as well as demographics and welfare.
- Biomedical healthcare industry - what future?
The biomedical healthcare sector comprises biotechnologies dedicated to the treatment of human beings. The first of three articles in the Sector Futures series on biomedical healthcare looks at key features of the sector, including the size and structure of its market, the nature of employment, the main trends and drivers shaping the present and future of the industry and the principal issues and uncertainties at stake in the industry.
- Business creation as a result of restructuring processes
‘Business creation as a result of restructuring processes’ is the theme of the forthcoming EMCC company network seminar, which will be held at the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions in Dublin, Ireland, on 17-18 November 2005. The seminar will highlight the findings of a recent EMCC study, which explored alternative and socially responsible ways of carrying out restructuring processes. It will focus on innovative practices leading to job creation, sustainable business strategies and partnership-based approaches. Four company case examples will offer an insight into unconventional restructuring procedures covering different companies, sectors and regions.
- Business resilience - anticipation as the key to sustainable business success
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored two distinct but related aspects of resilience: ‘anticipatory resilience’ and ‘crisis management resilience’. The seminar ‘Business resilience - anticipation as the key to sustainable business success’ was held in the VNO Management Centre ‘De Baak’ in Noordwijk, the Netherlands, on 2-3 June 2004. Four companies from France, the Netherlands, Spain and Sweden, representing different sectors (packaging, transport, hotel, pharmaceutical), presented their observations and strategies to an audience of 35 participants coming from 11 EU Member States.
- Business creation as a result of restructuring processes
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discussed the topic of business creation arising from restructuring processes. The seminar was held at the Foundation’s Conference Centre in Dublin, Ireland on 17-18 November 2005. Some six companies - JT Morgan (UK), Valnalón (Spain), Otto GmbH & Co KG (Germany), Kluwer & Compotex (Netherlands), Pomerania Shipyard Ltd (Poland) and France Télécom (France) - offered an insight into their restructuring procedures, which had led to the creation of start-up businesses and hence succeeded in offsetting negative employment effects. In an active and lively debate, 48 participants from a range of European countries exchanged experiences and knowledge of job creation initiatives as a result of business restructuring processes.
- Business resilience - anticipation as the key to sustainable business success
An open exchange of experiences will provide the backdrop for the next EMCC company network seminar on ‘anticipation as the key to sustainable business success'. This event will take place in Noordvijk, the Netherlands, on 2-3 June 2004. The seminar will explore two distinct but related aspects of resilience: ‘anticipatory resilience’ and ‘crisis management resilience’.
- Case studies in the graphics and media sector
These five case studies illustrate from a company perspective to what extent information and communication technologies (ICT) are penetrating the graphics and media sector. They show how five European companies of different sizes and positions in the value chain are coping with the positive and negative effects of change. One common characteristic of the five case study firms - Gopher, Daydream, Sportnews, BBC and Børsen - is that they have all been early adopters of ICT in their processes and products.
- Case studies in the textiles and leather sector
As with other mature industry sectors in Europe, the leather and textiles sector has undergone dramatic change over the past twenty years. The EMCC has commissioned eight case studies within the sector in Europe, aimed at showing how change is perceived in different companies. The studies outline how companies in the sector are currently positioning themselves and dealing with the positive and negative effects of change in the face of increasing globalisation and competition.
- Chemicals - visions of the future
This article builds on the discussion in the first article on the trends and drivers likely to shape the future of the sector and the challenges it faces in the era of globalisation. In particular, it looks at issues related to employment, innovation, EU regulation - notably the REACH proposal - and the factors influencing relocation of client industries away from the EU. The article also explores four alternative scenarios for the chemicals industry in the light of the main pressures on it, and concludes that the most optimistic one is unlikely to be realised.
- Chemicals sector - challenges, policy issues and the future
The third and last article in this series reviews major policy issues and challenges facing the chemicals industry sector, by analysing their timely, geographical and structural impact on the industry, as well as the gender dimension. In particular, it looks at the REACH proposal, forces driving the decline of the European chemicals industry and aspects of the unfavourable political environment.
- Childcare services in the EU - what future?
Childcare services are at different stages of development in the EU Member States and continue to be one of the fastest growing care markets in Europe. In some of the 10 new Member States, the childcare market is relatively immature and is therefore expected to grow rapidly in the near future. In the former EU15, where childcare services have matured and developed, policy now focuses more on the quality of services provided and on flexibility for parents. This article, the first of three in the Sector Future series on the childcare services sector in Europe, provides an overview of the key trends and drivers shaping the future of this sector.
- Collective agreements for employment and competitiveness
In 1998 the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions launched an investigation into the nature and extent of so-called 'pacts for employment', in the framework of a research project called 'Collective agreements for employment and competitiveness'. The results of this project, including a concept paper, research reports and case studies, are available through the Foundation's website.
- Company restructuring: Ericsson Microwave Systems
In 2003, Ericsson Microwave Systems faced the situation of a predicted sharp decline in activity in the period ahead. The company’s business model was based on the development and manufacture of sensors, services and information network solutions for the Swedish National Defence, alongside its selling of proven products and services to the export market. The first activity was strongly linked to national defence expenditure, which was expected to decline steeply in 2004-2005. The Ericsson Microwave Systems’ division had the challenge of reducing its employee numbers by 25%, which meant cutting 500 of the 2,000 jobs that existed in 2003. This case study analyses how, in 2003-2004, Ericsson Microwave Systems created and implemented a ‘competence shift process’, which aimed to reduce the total headcount of the division by almost 25%, without using traditional large-scale lay-off methods.
- Company restructuring: The Danish Steel Works
Iron and steel production belong to the traditional industries in Denmark, although this industry has not been a dominant player in the European market. Nonetheless, changes in the sector at European level over the last 20 years have negatively impacted on the industry in Denmark and contributed to the poor economic situation of the Danish Steel Works at the beginning of this decade. In June 2002, it became evident that the company would have to cease operations. This case study documents the context and details of the closure of the Steel Works, including actions taken at local and national level, and presents the restructured enterprise, DanSteel, that subsequently emerged.
- Company restructuring: The Danish Steel Works
Iron and steel production belong to the traditional industries in Denmark, although this industry has not been a dominant player in the European market. Nonetheless, changes in the sector at European level over the last 20 years have negatively impacted on the industry in Denmark and contributed to the poor economic situation of the Danish Steel Works at the beginning of this decade. In June 2002, it became evident that the company would have to cease operations. This case study documents the context and details of the closure of the Steel Works, including actions taken at local and national level, and presents the restructured enterprise, DanSteel, that subsequently emerged.
- Corporate social responsibility in France, Germany, Hungary and the United Kingdom
These 12 case studies look at how European companies are developing models of best practice in the field of working and employment conditions and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The companies selected are from four countries - France, Germany, Hungary and the United Kingdom - and cover sectors as diverse as the automotive, chemical, financial services, post and telecommunications, petrochemical and steel sectors. Restructuring and subcontracting were two specific issues highlighted in all case studies.
- Defence industry - visions of the future
This article builds on the discussion in the first article on the trends and drivers likely to shape the future of the sector and the challenges it faces since the end of the Cold War. In particular, it looks at developments in the industry, such as the increasing internationalisation of production, the growing importance of IT companies within the defence sector, and the privatisation of services that were once provided by the military. The article also explores three alternative scenarios for the defence industry illustrating the decisions that need to be made, as well as the implications of these.
- Defence - challenges for the future
This third and final article in the Sector Futures series on the European defence industry sector looks at the major policy issues and challenges facing the sector. It tries to tease out some of the main factors likely to shape the industry, looking at challenges in the area of strategy and security, governance, and technology and industrial restructuring. As the article suggests some possible futures, it is more speculative than the preceding two articles.
- Direct participation
Over a six-year period the Foundation's 'Employee Participation in Organisational Change' (EPOC) research project has charted developments in the changing world of work, most significantly in the area of work organisation. The Foundation's website provides an overview of the project and gives access to the products resulting from this research.
- Driving forward - futures for the automotive sector from a regional perspective
Anticipating change in the automotive sector from the perspective of key drivers - including technology, regional investment and support, and geographies of production - is the theme of EMCC’s next workshop in Warsaw, Poland, on 23-24 September 2004. ‘Driving forward - futures for the automotive sector’ will also examine possible effects on employment and work organisation, particularly for SMEs in the automotive supply chain, and how regional policymakers might respond.
- Driving forward - futures for the automotive sector from a regional perspective
Anticipating change in the automotive sector and the implications for employment was the subject of a two-day workshop organised by the European Monitoring Centre for Change (EMCC) in Warsaw on 23-24 September 2004. Policymakers and representatives from the social partners attended the event with nearly half the participants coming from the new Member States. Led by expert speakers, they examined the sector’s key drivers and trends and looked at scenarios for further development. Assessing the possible implications for the industry’s structure as well as for employment and working conditions, the workshop produced a number of policy recommendations for private and public sector actors at different territorial levels.
- EMCC dossier on the European textiles and leather sector
Like many other mature industrial sectors, Europe’s leather and textiles sector, has undergone dramatic change over the past 20 years. This EMCC dossier provides an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces driving change in the sector, using a compilation of relevant reports, company case studies and scenarios to give a comprehensive insight into an industry in transition.
- EMCC dossier on the crisis in the steel sector
On 13 February 2003 the European Parliament (EP) adopted a resolution on the crisis in the steel sector and the measures to be taken at Community level. This was against the background of Arcelor's announcement of restructuring plans throughout the group's continental sites. The Parliament calls on the Commission and EU Member States to promote innovation in this sector and to develop new actions aimed at specialisation as well as quality. This EMCC dossier outlines the background to the EP resolution through a series of links providing a wide range of information on the crisis, its developments, as well as some case studies of the sector.
- EMCC dossier on the European railway sector
Since the mid-1990s the railway sector has gone through a period of increasingly rapid change. Much of this is down to a growing demand for transport services, a sustained phase of consolidation due to deregulation and industry reforms, and EU enlargement. This EMCC dossier provides a brief analysis of the trends and drivers of change likely to shape future developments within the sector. It also provides an overview of employment, industrial relations and working conditions in the rail transport sector, highlighting developments in five EU Member States - Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United Kingdom. In addition, a series of links to a variety of relevant information sources complements this dossier.
- EMCC dossier on the European textiles and clothing sector
The textiles and clothing industry represents a significant sector of economic activity in world trade and also within the European Union. Due to various pressures for change as a result of consumer developments, technological advances, changes in production costs, growth in retailers’ purchasing power and environmental issues, the European textiles and clothing industry is characterised by being in a state of continuous restructuring and modernisation. Moreover, the dynamics in the industry are currently much influenced by the liberalisation of international trade. These challenges are being faced against a background of relocation of production and activities to low-cost countries, diminishing skilled labour force and ongoing technological change. This dossier examines the current state of the textiles and clothing sector in general, and the specific situation of four leading companies in the field. It examines the role that location plays in textiles and clothing, through an analysis of location decisions and profiles of two major textiles geographical clusters. It also puts forward a number of possible future scenarios for the development of the sector over the next decade.
- EMCC dossier on the European construction sector
Construction is one of Europe’s biggest industries, including the building, civil engineering, demolition and maintenance industries. The sector has an annual turnover in excess of €900 billion and more than 12 million employees in the EU15 alone. This EMCC dossier provides an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces driving change in the sector, using a compilation of relevant reports, company case studies and scenarios to give a comprehensive insight into a sector facing important challenges today.
- EMCC dossier on the European textiles and clothing sector – Additional sources of information
- EMCC dossier on Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS) - Additional sources of information
This document lists further sources of information on Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS) that may be of interest to the reader.
- EMCC dossier on the commerce sector – Additional sources of information
This document lists further sources of information on the commerce sector that may be of interest to the reader.
- EMCC dossier on the energy sector – Additional sources of information
This document lists further sources of information on the European energy sector that may be of interest to the reader.
- EMCC dossier on the European food and beverage sector - Further sources of information
This document lists further sources of information on the European food and beverage sector that may be of interest to the reader.
- EMCC Anticipatory Workshop - Feeding Europe: The future of the European food and beverage industry
- EMCC dossier on industrial restructuring
Industrial restructuring is a striking feature of Europe's economic landscape today. There is wide agreement among employees, social partner organisations and policymakers at all levels that the way industrial restructuring is managed can, and must be improved. A rich body of policy initiatives, conceptual material and practical experience is available, identifying the main issues and challenges governing industrial restructuring. This EMCC dossier aims at presenting a selection of relevant data sources in a systematic way. It reveals the principles of, and various approaches to, corporate restructuring. A series of links provide access to a wide variety of relevant information sources.
- EMCC dossier on the European biomedical healthcare sector
Modern biotechnology is one of the key enabling technologies of the 21st century: it could potentially prevent, treat and cure a wide range of diseases. However, the development of biomedical products – especially drugs – is an expensive, long-term endeavour. Thus, the biomedical healthcare sector relies on a wide range of supporting sectors and interacts with public administrations in all phases of the development, manufacturing and selling of a product. In a European policy context, the biomedical sector offers the potential to create a knowledge base that could contribute to Europe’s competitiveness in the global market. This dossier aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces shaping the sector, drawing primarily on recent original Eurofound research. It provides a sector mapping report, company and cluster studies, future scenarios and links to recommends sources of information.
- EMCC dossier on the European food and beverage sector
The European food and beverage sector is faced with an unprecedented number of challenges today, leading to an increase in restructuring activity across the EU. These developments are primarily driven by the need to enhance competitiveness and address local and global changes affecting the industry. This dossier aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces shaping the sector. The information is mainly drawn from recent and original EMCC research, including a sector mapping report, company and cluster studies, future scenarios and foresight work.
- EMCC dossier on the European transport and logistics sector
Transport and logistics are the ‘lifeblood’ of the European economy: levels of growth in transport and levels of economic growth are strongly associated. However, the expansion of transport and logistics activities has resulted in increased congestion on Europe’s roads, cities and ports, undermining the capacity of companies in the sector to reliably deliver goods and services on time, and limiting the possibilities for further expansion. Furthermore, growth in transport has led to rising CO2 emissions, posing a challenge for policymakers who seek to foster economic growth while meeting Europe’s targets for greenhouse gas reductions. These challenges are being faced against a background of uncertainty over rising oil prices, a shrinking labour force and ongoing technological change. This dossier explores the current state of the sector generally, and the situation as experienced by four key companies in the sector. It examines the role that location plays in transportation and logistics, through an analysis of location decisions, and through studies of two major transport clusters. It also presents a number of possible future scenarios for the development of the sector over the next decade.
- EMCC dossier on the European automotive industry
The automotive industry - a pioneer of industrial manufacturing which has weathered the storms of capitalism over the last century - is in crisis as it struggles to keep up with the increasingly rapid changes of the global economy. This EMCC dossier is a compilation of reports, regional and company case studies as well as scenarios, providing an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces driving change in the sector. An ‘interactive map’ showing basic statistics for each country and the main car assembly plants completes the dossier.
- EMCC dossier on the European telecoms sector
In less than two decades, Europe’s telecoms sector has moved from a nation-based industry, monopolised by public telecommunications operators to a free market system, operating on an international scale. The European Commission has played a key role in promoting market liberalisation through its regulatory regime. This EMCC dossier provides an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces driving change in the sector, using a compilation of relevant reports, company case studies and scenarios to give a comprehensive insight into a continuously evolving industry.
- EMCC exchange events in 2005
The European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC) will continue to develop its Company Network in 2005 with a new series of exchange events. These events offer a dynamic forum where managers, employees and their representatives, as well as policymakers and researchers, can examine change at the point of impact - the company level. Topics for 2005 include: ‘Offshore outsourcing of business services - threat or opportunity?’, ‘Workplace innovation - fostering productivity and quality of work’, ‘Entrepreneurship - developing the right climate’, and the challenges and future prospects for the European telecommunications industry and the construction sector.
- EMCC dossier on the European energy sector
Energy is vital for the continued functioning of industrial economies; as such, it is a sector that will always play a vital role in Europe’s economy. Moreover, the increasing demand for renewable energy sources – in light of rising prices of fossil fuels and growing calls for international action to reduce emissions of C02 – means that Europe’s energy sector, which has the highest level of use of renewable energies worldwide, has the potential to become the leading global player in an energy ‘renaissance’, with huge potential for employment and exports. However, the European energy sector is facing a number of challenges: renewable energy requires massive long-term investments, for which the capital is difficult to find; rising costs of fossil fuels; geopolitical risks; an ageing workforce and a lack of young people entering technical professions. This dossier aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces shaping the sector. It provides a mapping report that gives an overview of the current state of the sector, company and cluster studies that look in detail at current practices, and future scenarios that investigate possible outcomes for the sector out to the year 2050.
- EMCC dossier on the biomedical healthcare sector – Additional sources of information
This document lists further sources of information on the commerce sector that may be of interest to the reader.
- EMCC dossier on the financial services sector
The recent financial crisis has brought to light the serious challenges that the European financial services sector is facing. What are the prospects of a viable, more resilient financial industry emerging from the crisis? To answer this question, we need to look at the economic trends in the banking and insurance industries and examine the results of the debate on the regulation of financial markets. Also, a look at the business models that are applied in the different segments of the financial sector as a response to the crisis can help to map the future of the sector. From the present viewpoint, it appears very probable that different approaches will compete in the near future and there will be no clear decision about which is the superior model. The coming years will be a period of testing at the business level as well as at the level of public regulation.
- EMCC dossier on Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS)
The so-called ‘knowledge economy’ has given way to a whole range of new professional activities and occupations referred to as Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS). This emerging sector is regarded as a fundamental contributor to EU competitiveness, largely due to its key role in providing non-core services to companies across the economic spectrum. Although a relatively young and unknown sector, its contribution to employment and growth across the EU in the coming years is expected to be paramount in the context of achieving the goals of the Lisbon Agenda. This dossier aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces shaping KIBS and draws mainly on recent and original EMCC research, including a sector mapping report, company and cluster studies, future scenarios and foresight work.
- EMCC dossier on the European commerce sector
The European commerce sector faces an unprecedented number of challenges: greater competition, complex supply chains, changing demographics, increased migration, changing consumer and media trends and the difficulty of attracting skilled workers to the sector. In addition, the sector also faces challenges from outside Europe – the emergence of Asian economies and ongoing economic out-performance by the US. However, although these challenges pose a threat to some companies in the commerce sector, for others they can offer the opportunity for expansion and growth: many European retail and wholesale companies are improving competitiveness through acquisitions and mergers, the introduction of new technologies, restructuring, and innovations in product lines and human resources. This dossier aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the trends and forces shaping the sector, drawing primarily on recent, original EMCC research. It provides a sector mapping report, company and cluster studies, future scenarios and recommendations for change.
- EMCC Anticipation workshop: Commerce at the Crossroads – the future of the commerce sector in Europe
Dublin 19-20 November 2007
- EMCC dossier on the transport and logistics sector – Additional sources of information
This document lists further sources of information on the European transport and logistics sector that may be of interest to the reader.
- Economic development agencies: Fostering business champions
In a seminar organised for the members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discussed the role of economic development agencies (EDAs) in fostering business champions. The seminar was held in New Lanark, Scotland (United Kingdom), on 21-22 March 2006. Four EDAs - from the United Kingdom, Denmark, Ireland and Estonia - offered an insight into their strategies for fostering business champions and economic development. Three of the EDAs were joined in their presentations by firms that they had supported.
- Employment, industrial relations and working conditions in the European rail transport sector
For over a decade, the European rail transport sector has undergone extensive structural change. The consolidated report provides an overview of employment, industrial relations and working conditions in the sector. In addition, five country profiles of Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United Kingdom examine overall development and market trends in the sector, as well as structure and performance of the main companies.
- European chemicals industry - what future?
The chemicals industry is one of the largest and internationally most successful European industries. The first of three articles in the Sector Futures series on this sector - excluding pharmaceuticals - delineates the chemicals industry sector, looking at its market size, structure and nature of employment. The chemicals sector is capital-intensive and has traditionally enjoyed a comparative advantage in mature industrialised countries. This advantage, however, is now being challenged by globalisation. This factor is explored here, along with other trends and drivers likely to shape the sector’s future.
- Exchange events in 2004
The European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC) will continue to develop its Company Network in 2004, with a new series of exchange events. These events offer a dynamic forum where managers, employees and their representatives, as well as policymakers and researchers, can examine change at the point of impact - the company level. The topics for 2004 include, ‘Business resilience - anticipation as the key to sustainable business success’, ‘Gender balance - a key to resourcefulness’ and the future prospects of the European textile sector and the automotive industry.
- Family businesses: do they perform better?
This report reviews the literature related to the performance of family businesses. It surveys the key characteristics of family businesses and examines the empirical evidence comparing performance with non-family businesses. Four themes appear salient in linking the key characteristics with the business performance: ownership and control, management strategies and style, long-term view, and human resources. The report stresses the need for a pan-European survey to yield consistent results.
- Fashioning the future: Challenges for the European textiles and clothing sector
Examining the broad trends and drivers of change in the textiles and clothing industry was the subject of a two-day workshop organised by the European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC) in Nottingham on 16-17 December 2004. Held at the Nottinghamshire International Clothing Centre (NICC), this workshop was attended by some 30 representatives of the European textiles and garment industry, including the European Commission, national textiles trade associations, university researchers and sector specialists. Scenario techniques were used as a tool to intensify debate on the future of the European textiles and garment industry leading to a greater understanding of the management of change at company level and also to the formulation of recommendations for both regional and EU policymakers.
- Fashioning the future: Challenges for the textiles and clothing sector
Anticipating change in the textiles and clothing sector from the perspective of the broad trends and drivers of change - including liberalisation and globalisation of the markets as well as environmental legislation - is the theme of EMCC’s next workshop in Nottingham, United Kingdom, on 16-17 December 2004. ‘Fashioning the future: Challenges for the textiles and clothing sector’ will reflect on strategies for change, and consider survival and growth within the sector in the next 10 years.
- Feeding Europe: The future of the European food and beverage industry
The 'Feeding Europe' workshop, to be held in Dublin on 23-24 October, will present the research findings of an EU-wide study of the European food and beverage industry, commissioned by the EMCC. The aim of the study was to analyse the main trends and key drivers of change. It also examined the impact of these drivers on the structure and performance of the sector, and their political, economical and social consequences. The event will bring together European companies, social partners, policy makers and sectoral experts to reflect upon the issues raised and to share experience. Through the use of scenario techniques and group work, participants will also be encouraged to identify actions for further development, innovation and growth within the sector.
- Financial markets as drivers of change at company level: Five case studies
These five case studies illustrate from a company perspective to what extent financial market developments and innovations in the 1990s played a role in driving change. One key characteristic of these changes is the rapid growth in the availability of equity financing. Also key was the emergence of institutional investors as major direct equity owners. While these changes in financial markets enlarged the pool of savings available for productive investments, some observers consider that, through the 1990s, shareholders have increasingly focused on short-term financial and business performance.
- Financial services sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. April 2004 features the third and last article in the series on the future of the financial services sector. It focuses on policy issues for the future of the sector.
- Flexibility policies at the company level: a common interest?
This Company Network Seminar will be held in the headquarters of Dexia Group in Brussels on 1-2 October 2008.
- Funding the growth of enterprises
Using scenarios to anticipate change in the future of enterprise financing was the subject of a two-day workshop organised by the European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC). It was held in Brussels, Belgium on 22-23 October 2003. Various players in the ‘chain’ of enterprise funding - SME owners and managers; business support agencies; and private investors - attended the workshop. They examined a number of key drivers that will influence the availability of enterprise financing over the next 10 years. A number of additional drivers were identified, as were the key characteristics of a survivor SME in these future scenarios.
- Future stories - using scenarios to anticipate change
Anticipating change in the graphics and media sector was the subject of a two-day workshop organised by the European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC). Covering a wide range of industries and sub-sectors, from publishing to printing, advertising to broadcasting services, the sector is in a state of continuous transformation. The move from analogue to digital, from tightly regulated employment to freelancers, and from consumers to prosumers is part of the on-going evolution. Some of these trends formed the basis of an exploration of scenario-building techniques and the application of those techniques to company and working realities.
- Hotels and catering - what future?
The first article in the Sector Futures series on the hotels and catering sector sets out by defining the sector, outlining its market size, structure and employment figures. It then looks at the trends and drivers with a significant influence on the sector, raising some uncertainties and issues at stake for the industry and governments. Examples include the impact of technology on operations and labour demand, the current skills gap in the industry and the impact of consumer protection legislation.
- Hotels and catering - policies, issues and the future
The third and last article in this series on the hotels and catering sector draws on the first two to present the major policy issues and challenges facing the industry. The analysis considers the time profile of each major issue and how it affects regions, businesses and the sexes. The policy issues identified include working conditions and human resource development, legislation and new technologies.
- Hotels and catering sector - visions of the future
This second article in the Sector Futures series on the hotels and catering sector looks at the trends and drivers affecting the sector, presents a framework to link them together and assesses their impact. The article also reviews some scenario work relating to the sector before concluding with an examination of the implications on the sector of the drivers and scenarios. Examples of the implications include better working conditions, consolidation and more consumer protection.
- How to succeed as an SME in the internal market: Innovation strategies for cross-border business
In a seminar organised for members of its company network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discussed the challenges faced by SMEs when operating across European borders and the role that innovation can play in facilitating this process. The seminar was held in Berlin over 28-29 June 2006, and was organised by the European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC) in cooperation with the Confederation of German Employer Organisations(Bundesvereinigung der Deutschen Arbeitgeberverbände, BDA); it also had the institutional support of the European Association of Craft, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (UEAPME). Four small and mediums-sized enterprises (SMEs) - Flemming & Pehrsson GmbH (Germany), Somati ( Belgium), Novol ( Poland) and Teltronic (Spain ) - presented their experiences of innovation and internationalisation, on the basis of which participants discussed the issues and challenges that European SMEs are facing.
- ICT driving change in the fishing industry: A review of the years 1990-2002
In response to economic and environmental pressures, the European fishing industry has undergone a radical transformation over the past 30 years. Information and communication technologies (ICT) have provided the toolkit for regulators to monitor the industry and thereby promote sustainability, and for the industry to streamline the supply chain and hence introduce measures to promote efficiency. This report examines the impact of ICT at three different levels - macroscopic, microscopic on-board and microscopic on-shore - and describes how these technologies have developed and have been applied, and whether they have driven or managed change in the sector.
- Impact of ICT on the fishing industry: Two scenarios
The two scenarios - 'Sustainable eFishing' and 'Troubled waters' - challenge assumptions as to how information and communication technologies (ICT) will impact on the fishing industry across Europe. The question is to what extent the fishing industry will invest in ICT, and how successfully the Common Fisheries Policy will be implemented. After reviewing the methodology used for developing these scenarios, two diametrically opposed scenario contexts explore likely future developments within the fishing industry.
- Inclusion of ageing workers: Four company case examples
The European population is ageing. Measures to reduce the burden of work should be able both to help prevent premature wear and tear on employees who are still young, and to make work easier for older workers. The four company case examples have addressed these issues by rethinking work organisation, adapting working time schedules, training and recruiting older employees. The companies operate in different sectors - electrical, financial services, health and steel - in Denmark, Norway and Sweden.
- Information and communication technologies sector - what future?
Sector Futures are specialised, targeted reports using findings from existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. December 2003 features the third and last article in the series on the future of information and communication technologies (ICT). It focuses on policy issues for the future of the sector.
- Knitting the future of the textiles and leather sector: Four scenarios
This report uses four scenarios to explore future developments in the European textiles and leather sector. Its aim is to present a scenario analysis that may be used as a vehicle to develop long-term perspectives to optimise the European textiles industry and the sustainable development of its workforce. First the report reviews the scenario-building process. Each scenario then paints a very different picture of the possible Europe of 2010, highlighting various aspects.
- Knowledge-intensive business services - policies, issues and the future
Knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS) are among the most rapidly growing sectors of the EU economy, and play an increasingly important role in the performance of client sectors. This third article reviews a range of policy issues that are raised by the three scenarios - outlined in greater detail in the previous article - in relation to the future development of KIBS. As well as outlining major policy responses to these issues, it examines their rationale and the challenges these responses are liable to confront. In particular, the article calls for more explicit consideration of KIBS in innovation policy and in other policy areas.
- Knowledge-intensive business services - what future?
Knowledge-intensive business services, or KIBS for short, represent one of the fastest growing areas of the European economy. The first of three articles in the Sector Futures series on this sector sets out by defining KIBS, which involves distinguishing them from other forms of services and knowledge-intensive activities. It then looks at knowledge-intensive business services in the European Union (EU), highlighting key similarities and differences in their development across Member States. The feature also examines the forces driving the sector’s growth, including issues of outsourcing, the internationalisation of services, and the growth in demand for certain forms of knowledge.
- Knowledge-intensive business services: Trends and scenarios
This article builds on the first article’s discussion on the rise of the knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS) sector, the reasons for its growth and the nature of the contemporary landscape of KIBS. It reviews a limited number of earlier studies that have attempted to identify drivers of quantitative and qualitative change in KIBS, and explores three alternative scenarios for the future development of the sector in coming years.
- Managing large-scale restructuring: Barclays
Increasing competition in the financial services sector means that many banks are at risk of closure or are being forced to merge with other financial institutions. One of the leading financial services companies in the world, Barclays has managed to stay competitive in a difficult market, due to the development of the organisation's global strategy and operating model. For Barclays, this strategy involves minimising costs and improving customer services, which has led the company, since 2003, to offshore many of its back-office posts to lower-cost countries, such as India. This case study describes the driving forces to offshore in a corporate and socially responsible way, as well as the implementation of the offshoring agreement in Barclays.
- Managing change in EU cross-border mergers and acquisitions
The European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions organised a company network seminar on November 29–30, 2007, hosted by Santander at its corporate headquarters in Madrid, Spain. In intensive discussions over the two days, 32 representatives from companies, trade unions, universities, research organisations and the European Commission discussed the management of change in EU cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M& A). The context was set by a presentation from Roderick Meiklejohn from the European Commission’s Directorate General of Economics and Finance, giving the latest evidence of trends in M&A in Europe. This was followed by detailed presentations of their M&A strategies by representatives of Air France / KLM (France, Netherlands), Impress (Netherlands, UK), Danske Bank / National Irish Bank (Denmark, Ireland), Schneider Electric (France) and Santander /Abbey (Spain, UK)
- Managing large-scale restructuring: The cases of Danone-Saiwa and Moulinex
Under pressure from economic and financial globalisation, French-based food group, Danone, and electrical household appliance manufacturer, Moulinex, announced large-scale restructuring in 2001. Danone decided to rationalise its European biscuit production facilities which led to the closure of the Saiwa factory in Locate Triulzi, Italy, while Moulinex filed for bankruptcy following an unsuccessful company recovery plan. The two case studies explore the decision-making process accompanying the restructuring, outline the positive aspects and highlight the initiatives underway for economic redevelopment of the regions concerned.
- Managing change in European cross-border Mergers & Acquisitions
The second Company Network Seminar of 2007 will be held in the headquarters of Grupo Santander in Boadilla del Monte (Madrid) on November 29-30.
- Managing large-scale restructuring: Michelin Stoke-on-Trent
Tyre production is not an industry traditionally associated with the Stoke-on-Trent industrial area of the West Midlands in the United Kingdom. However, following the arrival of the French-based tyre manufacturer Michelin in the late 1920s, the company soon became one of the region's major employers. In the 1980s and late 1990s, Michelin recognised the need to restructure its Stoke manufacturing plant, aiming at reducing production costs and remaining competitive. However, in August 2000, the French mother company announced the closure of operations at Stoke, due to high overheads and deteriorating market conditions. This case study documents the restructuring process and its implementation, leading to the closure of the Michelin Stoke plant. It also looks at the social and economic measures taken by the company to manage the closure in a socially responsible way.
- Managing diversity in the workplace: competitive advantages for companies
- Managing restructuring: the Vermondoise Group of sugar refineries
In light of the abolition of quotas and the opening up of the European sugar market to poorer sugar-producing countries, EU sugar producers have to readjust their market strategy. The French Vermondoise Group of sugar refineries has tried to anticipate these changes since the end of the 1990s, by announcing a restructuring of its operations. This case study of the Vermondoise Group of sugar refineries outlines the context and details of the closure of its Beauchamps refinery in northern France, including actions taken at local, regional and national level.
- Managing business internationalisation
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored business practices in the context of companies expanding their operations to new external markets in Europe and elsewhere. The seminar 'Managing business internationalisation’ was held in Brussels, Belgium on 12-13 March 2003. Four companies from Germany, Ireland, Spain and Sweden presented their approach and experience to an audience of 35 participants representing a wide range of stakeholder groups (employers, trade unionists, government representatives, change agents and academics) from 11 EU Member States and acceding countries.
- Managing large-scale restructuring: Swedish Postal Services
Few industries have experienced such fundamental changes as the postal services since the 1990s. This case study examines the downsizing strategy of the Swedish Postal Services, Posten AB, which is an example of a long-term and ongoing restructuring process. It focuses on the development of the Futurum Programme in 2000, a separate outplacement service of Posten, which aims to facilitate a faster and smoother restructuring process. There are clear benefits to each participating employee and hence the negative effects associated with long dismissal notices are minimised.
- Managing diversity in the workplace: competitive advantages for companies
The first Company Network Seminar of 2007 will be held in the headquarters of Schneider Electric in Paris on June 14-15. This event aims to analyse how companies are managing diversity, both internally and externally, as part of their daily operations. Five European companies will present their corporate practices in order to illustrate the business benefits of diversity initiatives in the workplace.
- Networks, partnerships and corporate social responsibility in Poland: Case study of the Autokreacja Association
Against a background of severe economic and social problems during Poland’s transition to the market economy, a group of company managers from British Petroleum Polska, Sheraton, ABB and Commercial Union formed the Autokreacja Association in 2002. The association aims to promote and support responsible business practices that benefit both businesses and society, while helping to achieve social, economic and environmentally sustainable development. As part of this aim, it offers intensive training programmes to disadvantaged, unemployed young people to improve their chances of finding work.
- Offshore outsourcing of business services - threat or opportunity?
‘Offshore outsourcing of business services - threat or opportunity?’ is the theme of EMCC’s first 2005 company network seminar in Tallinn, Estonia, on 17-18 March. The seminar aims to provide a better understanding of this growing phenomenon and what motivates leading companies to undertake such a practice. Four company case examples will offer an insight into corporate management strategies associated with ‘offshore outsourcing’ and the implications for job losses and employment creation within the EU.
- Offshore outsourcing of business services
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored corporate strategies related to the offshore outsourcing of business services. The seminar ‘Offshore outsourcing of business services - threat or opportunity?’ was held in Tallinn, Estonia, on 17-18 March 2005. Four companies - Elcoteq-Personalijuht (Estonia), Siemens Business Services (SBS, Ireland), T-Systems (Austria) and ABN AMRO (the Netherlands) - presented their company strategies and an assessment of their experiences with offshore outsourcing. In an active and lively debate, 45 participants from 16 EU Member States discussed the conditions, impact, limits and policy implications of this business strategy.
- Outsourcing of ICT and related services in the EU
Based primarily on an analysis of a body of research covering more than two decades, this report examines the scope of ‘offshore outsourcing’ of ICT services and other ICT enabled services. It defines the term ‘offshore outsourcing’, explores the drivers and trends and analyses related issues such as the distribution of ICT service employment in Europe.
- Performing arts - what future?
Performing arts are classified within the broader sector of recreation, sports and culture. The first of three articles in the Sector Futures series on this sector delineates the performing arts industry sector and examines its market size, structure and nature of employment. It then discusses some of the main trends and drivers affecting the sector, as well as the principal issues and uncertainties related to performing arts.
- Progressive initiatives to combat harassment: Three case examples
There is increasing concern over the growing problem of violence and harassment in the workplace throughout the European Union. The three case examples have introduced policies addressing the issue by focusing on the management of diversity, response programmes, and treatment and rehabilitation. They operate in three different sectors - bicycle manufacturing, education and health - in different EU Member States: the Netherlands, Austria and Sweden respectively.
- Responsible management - a total approach
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored company strategies aimed at a total responsibility approach to management. The seminar 'Reponsible management - a total approach' was held in Lyon, France on 15-16 April 2003. Four companies from Finland, France and the United Kingdom presented their approach and experience to an audience of 40 participants representing different stakeholders from companies from 10 EU Member States.
- Restructuring for growth and job creation
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored company strategies for business growth and how these are related to job creation. The seminar ‘Restructuring for growth and job creation’ was held in Stockholm, Sweden on 11-12 June 2003. Four companies from France, Italy, Norway and Sweden, representing different sectors (pharmaceutical, construction, graphic arts, transport logistics), presented their approach and experience to an audience of 25 participants from eight different EU Member States.
- Scenario for developments in the graphics and media sector
In situations of uncertainty dominated by a high speed of change, scenario and foresight methods are ways of creating comprehensive and plausible views of alternative futures. As part of its work to examine the drivers of change in the graphics and media sector, EMCC has commissioned experts to anticipate future scenarios which could serve as a basis for informed discussion and debate in workshops. These also link to current policy approaches in the area of the knowledge society and e-learning.
- Sector Futures: Defence industry
- The Future of Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS) in Europe - unlocking the potential of the knowledge based economy
This anticipation workshop, to be held in Helsinki on 23-24 November 2006, will present the research findings of an EU-wide study commissioned by the EMCC. The study analyses the main trends and key drivers of change, as well as their impact on the structure and performance of the European Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS) industry as well as their political, economical and social consequences. The event will bring together European companies, social partners, policymakers and sectoral experts. Through the use of scenario techniques and group work participants will jointly reflect on and exchange their experiences. They will also be encouraged to identify actions for further development, innovation and growth within the sector. The workshop is organised by the European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC) www.emcc.eurofound.europa.euand hosted by the Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK) www.ek.fi.
- The automotive sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. July 2004 features the last article in the series on the future of the automotive sector. It explores some of the directions that EU policy could take to safeguard the future of the industry and guarantee a cleaner and safer environment for all citizens.
- The biomedical healthcare sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. January 2006 features the complete Sector Futures article series on the biomedical healthcare sector. It sets out by defining the sector, outlining its market size, structure and employment figures, and looks at the trends and drivers shaping the sector. Subsequent articles assess the impact and review some scenario work relating to the sector’s future before concluding with an analysis of major policy issues and challenges facing the industry.
- The childcare services sector - visions of the future
The absence of a common vision and policy for childcare services makes it difficult to assess the sector’s future in Europe, since every Member State has its own childcare agenda. This article, the second in the Sector Future series on childcare services, highlights the broad areas for debate that are likely to be high on the childcare agenda in the future throughout the EU. In addition, it outlines two future scenarios: one in which the EU embraces a vision for childcare and early years services, and another which lacks this vision.
- The childcare services sector - future challenges
This third and final article in the Sector Future series on childcare services focuses on the broad challenges facing the childcare sector in Europe and on the role of the European Commission in the economic and social field, rather than on specific policy issues facing individual Member States. The reason for this focus is that childcare systems and practices in Member States are at different stages of development, both in relation to timing issues and level of maturity. This implies that no one Member State faces exactly the same challenges as another.
- The childcare services sector – what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. April 2006 features the complete Sector Futures article series on the childcare services sector. The first article sets out to define the sector, outlining its market size, structure and employment figures, and looks at the trends and drivers shaping the sector. Subsequent articles assess these factors and review some scenario work relating to the sector’s future, before concluding with an analysis of major policy issues and challenges facing childcare services in the EU.
- The defence industry sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. June 2006 features the complete Sector Futures article series on the defence industry sector. The first article sets out to define the sector, outlining its market size, structure and employment figures, and looks at the trends and drivers shaping the sector. Subsequent articles assess these factors and review some scenario work relating to the sector’s future, before concluding with an analysis of major policy issues and challenges currently facing the defence industry in the EU.
- The future of KIBS in Europe: Unlocking the potential of the knowledge-based economy, Helsinki, 23–24 November - EMCC Anticipatory Workshop
This is a summary of the main points discussed in the concluding debate of the workshop. The final session focused on the definition of an agenda for change for the KIBS sector.
- The food and drink sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. The third feature in this series on the food and drink sector (January 2005) discusses the future of Europe’s food and drink manufacturing, exploring policy issues that arise from an examination of trends, drivers and scenarios. The landscape for Europe’s food policies for the future will be shaped by the debate on diet, nutrition and health.
- The future of telecommunications - still in Europe?
Anticipating change in the telecoms sector, and the implications for employment, was the subject of a two-day workshop, organised by the European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC) in Montpellier, France, on 26-27 May 2005. Policymakers and representatives from the social partners attended the event, which benefited from significant participation from the new Member States. Led by expert speakers, the participants examined the sector’s key drivers and trends, and looked at scenarios likely to shape future development. Assessing the possible implications for the industry’s structure, as well as for employment and working conditions, the workshop highlighted a number of issues for private and public sector actors.
- The future of construction - building a safer and more competitive sector
The next EMCC workshop will present the research findings of an EU-wide study commissioned by the EMCC on the main key drivers of change and socio-economic trends, as well as their impact on the structure and performance of the European construction sector. ‘The future of construction - building a safer and more competitive sector’ will be held in Madrid, Spain, on 29-30 September 2005.
- The hotels and catering sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. December 2005 features the complete Sector Futures article series on the hotels and catering sector. It sets out by defining the sector, outlining its market size, structure and employment figures, and looks at the trends and drivers shaping the sector. Subsequent articles assess the impact and review some scenario work relating to the sector’s future before concluding with an analysis of major policy issues and challenges facing the industry.
- The health and social services sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. January 2005 features the third and last article in the series on the future of the health and social services sector. The paper examines European level policy responses to some of the factors shaping the sector’s future, and addresses specific policy challenges facing European healthcare systems.
- The impact of ICT on Europe’s fishing industry: a case study approach
This report presents the key issues facing the fishing industry today. A series of company case studies provides the backdrop for assessing the role of ICT as a driver of change in the fishing industry. The case studies were selected to reflect a varied range of companies operating in the European fishing industry: from a company that is diversifying its activities in order to remain competitive to a supermarket chain that has brought its knowledge and experience from the retail food sector to bear on the fishing industry. In all cases, ICT has been used in different ways, both as a stand-alone system and as a more sophisticated integrated systems approach.
- The publishing and media sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. July 2004 features the third article in the series on the future of the publishing and media sector. It focuses on policy issues for the future of the sector.
- The performing arts sector - policy issues and challenges for the future
The first two articles in this series on the performing arts sector introduced and defined the sector, and then reviewed the trends and drivers affecting the sector. This third and last article on the sector presents the major policy issues and challenges facing the sector. The analysis considers the time profile of each policy issue and how it affects regions and companies. Policy issues identified include digitalisation of content leading to an increased number of distribution channels, sources of funding for the live performing arts and the changing skills mix required in the sector.
- The performing arts sector - visions of the future
This second article in the series focuses on the main factors influencing the present and future of the performing arts sector. It builds on the first article, which described the salient features of the sector, in particular, the size and structure of its market, the nature of employment, and issues and uncertainties facing the sector. It examines the main trends and drivers shaping the sector’s future, including the forces that are leading to a reduction in the public funding available to the performing arts.
- The role of competence and qualification development in fostering workforce mobility
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discussed the role of competence and qualification development in fostering workforce mobility. The seminar was held in Thessaloniki on 9-10 November 2006, and was organised by the European Monitoring Centre on Change (EMCC) in cooperation with the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP). The introductory presentations summarised the policy context and the results of recent research on mobility in Europe. The second part of the seminar highlighted initiatives undertaken at European and national level aimed at promoting the transparency and recognitions of qualifications of employees. The final session discussed the implications of these policy objectives for employers and employees. Four companies – Electricité de France Group (France), the Bank of Cyprus (Cyprus), Telefónica S.A (Spain) and Neorion Syros Shipyards (Greece) – presented their approach to the competence development and mobility of their employees.
- The transport sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. The third article in the series on the transport sector (May 2005) explores some of the issues that have arisen from policies of the Commission White Paper 'European transport policy for 2010’, and from subsequent policy documents.
- The textiles and leather sector - what future?
Sector Futures provides specialised reports based on the monitoring of existing foresight studies, scenario work, innovation studies and reliable data sources. The second feature in the Sector Futures series on the textiles and leather sector explores in greater depth the driving forces likely to shape future developments in the industry. It discusses whether the textiles and clothing industry is 'a dying industry - or not?' in Europe. The third and last article in the series then looks at policy responses currently being pursued at EU level, in order to address the challenges facing the sector over the coming decade.
- The workplace of the future - managing the challenge of an ageing workforce
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored policies and practices associated with managing an ageing workforce. The seminar ‘The workplace of the future - managing the challenge of an ageing workforce’ was held in Vienna, Austria, on 4-5 March 2004. Three companies from Austria, France and Germany, representing different sectors (steel, electronics, financial services), and the Finnish Ministry of Labour presented their approach and policies to an audience of 60 participants coming from 12 EU Member States.
- The workplace of the future - managing the challenge of an ageing workforce
An open exchange of experiences will provide the backdrop for the first EMCC company network seminar in 2004 on ‘Managing the challenge of an ageing workforce'. This two-day event will take place in Vienna on 4-5 March 2004. It will explore the challenges faced by companies in terms of managing their human resources in a period of demographic decline and increasing life expectancy.
- TransFair and HVB Profil: The internal organisation of Hypovereinsbank’s placement and temporary work agency
This case study examines the decision by HypoVereinsbank (HVB) - one of Germany’s leading banks - to set up the internal placement and temporary work unit, known as TransFair, and to introduce HVB Profil GmbH as a subsidiary, as part of its restructuring activities. Reduction in personnel has been particularly linked to both internal restructuring and to rationalisation measures that evolved, following the merger of two German banks to form the HypoVereinsbank and its subsequent merger with the Bank Austria Creditanstalt, in 1997 and 2000-2001 respectively.
- Transforming organisations: have you a case to share?
An open exchange of experiences will provide the backdrop for the next EMCC company network seminar on 'the importance of leadership and culture in managing change'. This event will take place in Madrid on 23-24 September 2003. What is organisation culture and why is it important with regard to change? How can good leadership and an appropriate culture help to achieve successful transformation?
- Transforming organisations - the importance of leadership and culture in managing change
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored new approaches to leadership, the relationship between leadership and organisation culture and the role both factors play in successfully transforming businesses. The seminar, ‘Transforming organisations’, was held in Madrid, Spain, on 23-24 September 2003. Four companies from Belgium, France, Ireland and Spain presented their company’s approach and experience to an audience of 45 participants from 10 EU Member States.
- Workplace innovation - fostering productivity and quality of work
In a seminar organised for members of its Company Network, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions explored sustainable strategies related to the implementation of new forms of work organisation. The seminar ‘Workplace innovation - fostering productivity and quality of work’ was held in Bologna, Italy, on 27-28 June 2005. Four companies - Volvo Cars Ghent (Belgium), HERA (Italy), the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration (the Netherlands) and Grundfos (Denmark) - presented their company strategies and assessed the experiences they had made in terms of workplace innovations. In an active and lively debate, 48 participants from 15 EU Member States discussed the conditions, impact, limitations and policy implications of changing work systems.
EMCC is a project of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions.
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