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Economica

Vol. 16 No. 3-4 (2025)
Articles

Economic Restructuring and Labor Market Adaptation in a Regional Context – The Impact of Industrial Investments in Debrecen

Published:
2025-12-31
DOI Linkhttps://doi.org/10.47282/economica/2025/16/3-4/16090
Author
Péter Szobonya
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pdf (Hungarian)
Keywords
industrial transformation labour market labor market Industry 4.0 competencies recruitment Debrecen
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Copyright (c) 2025 Péter Szobonya

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How To Cite
Selected Style: APA
Szobonya, P. (2025). Economic Restructuring and Labor Market Adaptation in a Regional Context – The Impact of Industrial Investments in Debrecen. Economica, 16(3-4), 139-154. https://doi.org/10.47282/economica/2025/16/3-4/16090
Abstract

This study examines the labour market impacts of the large-scale industrial investments in Debrecen between 2015-2025, with particular focus on the economic transformation generated by BMW, CATL and other multinational corporations. The research aims to explore how the emergence of new high-tech industries transforms the structure of the regional labour market, what competency realignments it produces, and what managerial challenges it poses. The methodological approach combines literature analysis, secondary data collection and expert consultations, focusing on investments in the Southern and Northwestern Economic Zones. The research identified a "dual shock effect" in Debrecen's labor market: the creation of more than 20,000 new jobs generates a quantitative shock, while the industrial structural transformation and the competency expectations of international companies representing high-tech industries result in a qualitative shock. Competition for labour has led to significant wage increases and forces the application of new recruitment and retention strategies, while intercultural leadership and organizational development have also become critical challenges during the implementation of greenfield investments in Debrecen. Debrecen's economic transformation represents an exemplary process for regional development, however, it poses significant adaptation challenges for both employees and companies.

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