The world of work (Manpower)
The world of work (Manpower)
The Economist, 6-12 January 2007, Vol. 382 No. 8510, Start page: 57, No of pages: 2
Purpose – To investigate the new strategy being implemented by Manpower, driven by changes in working practices. Design/methodology/approach– Puts forward how it is possible to gauge demands for labour by the performance of one of the world’s leading employment-services firms,Manpower; looks at how its share price is regarded as a “bellwether”for the investors’ expectations of the US economy. Reports on the new strategy adopted by Manpower in order to adapt to changing working practices and to profit from the changes in the world’s labour markets; describes how it is now intent on becoming a comprehensive employment services firm, downgrading its concentration on supplying temporary workers to implementing strategies concerned with outsourcing, ageing populations and skills shortages. Outlines Manpower’s operations in different countries; identifies those firms that Manpower has acquired to allow it to gain a foothold in other areas; features its business interests in China and India; suggests that while Manpower future prospects have been made better by the demand from companies for greater flexibility, the company faces competition from its major rival, Adecco. Originality/value – Provides an overview of Manpower’s operations.ISSN: 0013-0613
Keywords: Corporate strategy, Employment services, Labour market,Manpower, Temporary workers
