ABSTRACT
is one of the inputs that goes into producing goods and services. There are various aspects of labor, many of which vary spatially and are therefore important elements in the location of industry. Some of these elements are:
cost – the cost of labor to a company can be between 15 and 40% of its total costs. Differentials in global wage levels can be an influential part of the decisions taken by transnational companies in locating plants
quality – access to a skilled workforce has always been an important factor for some industries. Today, it is a very important consideration for many small-scale light industries, particularly those involved with computers and robotics
relations – centers of union activity are regarded by some employers as potential centers of militancy and therefore as a negative location factor. This has tended to become less important with the decline in labor union membership
availability – some areas may have the required workforce for a potential employer. For example, some companies may want a large number of female employees and go to regions where they are available for employment.
