Unions, Tripartite Competition and Innovation

Arbeitspapier

We present theoretical and empirical evidence challenging results from early studies that found unions were detrimental to workplace innovation. Under our theoretical model, which extends the Cournot duopoly innovation model, local union wage bargaining is more conducive to innovation - particularly product innovation - than competitive pay setting. We test the theory with workplace data for Britain and Norway. Results are consistent with the theory: local union bargaining is positively associated with product innovations in both countries. In Norway, local union bargaining is also positively associated with process innovation.

Object Details

• Language: Englisch

References and Relationships

• Bibliographic citation: Series: IZA Discussion Papers ; No. 13015

Classification and Topics

• Classification: Wirtschaft ; Safety; Job Satisfaction; Related Public Policy ; Trade Unions: Objectives, Structure, and Effects ; Labor Standards: Working Conditions ; Organization of Production ; Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives
• Subject: product innovation ; process innovation ; trade unions ; collective bargaining

Contributors, Places and Time

• Event: Geistige Schöpfung
• (who): Bryson, Alex ; Dale-Olsen, Harald
• Event: Veröffentlichung
• (who): Institute of Labor Economics (IZA)
• (where): Bonn
• (when): 2020

Further information

• Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10419/216327
• Last update: 10.03.2025, 11:42 AM CET