Workforces and local communities against corporate restructuring: a comparative case study of resistance to plant closures in Northern Spain

Abstract

ABSTRACT The article examines the formation of local networks of resistance to production relocation plans. We present evidence from three case studies characterized by strong local defiance to plant closure plans in three American-owned transnational companies with four production sites in Northern Spain. The article explores the repertoire of protest and support mobilization leading the workforces to forge local alliances with trade unions, public authorities and other local community organizations and collectives. We focus on labour conflicts that transcend company boundaries through mobilizing urban communities. The methodology used is qualitative. Our analysis is grounded on a theoretically informed comparative case study based on the literature on power relations and micro-political struggles in transnational companies. We also make use of conceptual insights from the labour geography perspective. The article delves into the contra-hegemonic potential of labour-community alliances. Our findings substantiate the role of micro-politics in transnational companies and reveal opportunities and constraints for effective local responses to corporate restructuring.