Analysis of the Potential of the Second Labour Market

In the current Swiss economy, many companies suffer from a shortage of skilled workers. One solution is the integration of workers from the second labour market in company’s production processes, operating in the manufacturing and plastic industries. How can individuals from the second labour market be integrated into the manufacturing and plastic industry in Switzerland? Special attention in this study is given to the so-called shop-in-shop model, which integrates workers from the second labour market directly on-site into the company's production chain. Employers pay output-based expenses for the work performed. By settling directly within the companies’ respective production chains, both the motivation and integration of people from the second labour market could be improved.

This study analyses the potential of the second labour market in the manufacturing and plastic industry. Study results show that the potential in the highly qualified and largely automated manufacturing industry is limited. In contrast, the plastic industry offers greater potential, as there is a higher prevalence of easily performed tasks. Experts in the plastic industry cite a lack of basic competencies and "soft skills" as the main obstacles to integrating people from the second labour market. The study also shows that companies' concerns about quality assurance and staff care in the shop-in-shop model are based on misunderstandings that can be resolved through targeted communication.

Finally, this study discusses approaches through which companies may profit from the integration of individuals from the second labour market in their production chains. Thus, the study makes an important contribution to the discussion on social responsibility in the modern economy. The shop-in-shop model leads to a "win-win" situation for all participants: people from the second labour market, employers, and society.

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