ABSTRACT
This contribution presents a comparative analysis of the impact of Japanese inward investment on employment relations in the North East of England and South Wales. In particular, it examines the experience of 'Japanization' in both regions within the context of on-going processes of employment restructuring. While there is some variation in impact between regions, overall the evidence suggests that Japanization is helping to transform the work environment. However, it is not resulting in the idealized model of harmonious employment relations depicted by some commentators, but is part of a wider shift towards a more coercive set of employment practices.
