Localizing International Manufacturing Companies in the U.S. - Examining Successful Labor Practices

How have global manufacturing firms adjusted their labor practices and site choices in the U.S. post-COVID-19?

Using comprehensive surveys and interviews, my dissertation, "Localizing International Manufacturing Companies in the U.S. - Examining Successful Labor Practices," analyzes the shifts in localization strategies that balance economic efficiency with social and environmental concerns.

This study highlights the importance of factors such as 'Quality of Life' and 'Environmental Constraints' in site selection processes, emphasizing a shift towards sustainability and corporate social responsibility in business operations. Economic factors such as 'Tax Incentives and Cash Grants' and 'Reliable Cost-Competitive Utilities', also play a crucial role, showcasing the multifaceted considerations that guide the decision-making processes of international firms.

Significantly, the adjustments in labor practices—such as remote work, flexible working hours, and enhanced safety measures—reveal a moderate effectiveness in maintaining productivity, with a positive impact on the local economy. These findings underscore the complex dynamics between operational strategies and their broader economic implications.

Interviews within the study bring to light the critical role of workforce development and economic revitalization, highlighting the importance of addressing skill gaps and leveraging higher education institutions in workforce development training to meet the evolving needs of a technologically advancing sector. Partnerships with local institutions and community integration efforts are also emphasized for fostering robust local economies and sustainable business practices.

Looking ahead, my work lays a solid foundation for future research exploring the complexities of urban manufacturing trends and urges  focused analysis on how these evolving trends impact urban development and city planning strategies. Conducting additional surveys with local manufacturing firms will be essential to gauge ongoing shifts in labor practices and their implications for local workforce development. Developing policy recommendations to support city planning strategies and accommodate manufacturing growth while ensuring that economic benefits are maximized while social and environmental responsibilities are upheld is crucial.

This expanded inquiry will not only enrich academic understanding but also provide practical frameworks for policymakers and urban planners to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the localization strategies of international manufacturing firms in urban settings.

Bruce Zou is a fourth-year Doctoral Candidate at the University of Pennsylvania, focusing on organizational learning and workforce development policies under Dr. Mike Nakkula. His research aims to enhance strategies for international manufacturing firms entering the U.S. market by developing effective upskilling and reskilling solutions. Previously, Bruce excelled in international project management and contributed significantly to the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, where he facilitated close to $9 billion of investments and managed trade initiatives from Asia. His diverse background, including extensive cultural experiences from Shanghai to the U.S., has honed his interpersonal and cross-cultural skills, making him an ideal researcher in international economic development.