The economic orientation of labour market areas: between specialisation and diversification of local economies

The new labour market areas divide France into 306 areas. Seven distinct profiles have been mapped out depending on their economic orientation. Major agglomerations (split into two profiles depending on the intensity of their specialisation) are characterised by jobs that are typical of major metropolitan areas and the presence of large establishments. Some labour market areas specialise in agriculture, such as Carhaix-Plouguer in Brittany, industry, such as Oyonnax in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes or even tourism, such as Sainte-Maxime in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Others are more diversified, for example Chaumont in Grand Est. Lastly, some labour market areas are of a more residential nature: the proportion of working people who live and work there is smaller than elsewhere. These zones are primarily located close to major agglomerations.