Temporarily used places of multi-local living employees. Challenges and potentials for operational and regional developments in rural areas of Lower Saxony

Abstract

Due to globalization processes in connection with increasing individualization and pluralization of lifestyles as well as flexible working environments, spatial mobility is increasing. A multi-local way of life, thus living in several places, is becoming more and more important. This paper presents the first results of an analysis of occupational multi-local lifestyles in rural areas. This contribution aims to identify challenges and potentials of multi-local lifestyles for operational and regional developments and to formulate associated possible fields of action for political-planning practice and entrepreneurial practice. With the help of qualitative methods, a case study analysis was carried out in the district Diepholz in Lower Saxony (Germany). The article first discusses the motives and circumstances that ensure that employees (have to) live in several places. Afterwards, the organization of everyday life and working life of the persons living in temporarily used places is explained. Furthermore, it will be shown which operational and regional framework conditions and structures influence these lifestyles, as well as the significance of job-related multi-locality for operational and regional developments.

Keywords

• Mutli-locality
• Rural areas
• Everyday life
• Companies
• Regional development
• Lower Saxony