One of the most significant changes within capitalist nations during the late twentieth century
is the transition of the capitalist mode of production from Fordism to Post-Fordism. Changes
in macro-economic market conditions, production processes and labour processes are part of
the transition. These changes are felt not only at the level of the aggregate economy,
economic sectors, firms and labour markets. They have an impact on the employment
relationship and the way workers make their livelihoods. This dissertation provides empirical
evidence of labour market flexibility in the clothing manufacturing and the clothing retail
sectors and demonstrates that the number of hours worked and wages earned have
implications for the livelihoods of workers. The research was undertaken in a clothing
manufacturer and clothing retailer situated outside of Durban. The clothing manufacturer is
located within an industrial area in Tongaat and the clothing retailer is located within a
regional shopping centre in Westville.
