An explanation of the impact of wages on lifestyles in the Maltese local context : a focus on employees in the manufacturing sector in Malta

Abstract

This long essay evaluates the impact of wages on employees' lifestyles. To do so, the study is devoting attention on of employees working in the local manufacturing sector, with a special focus on those working within the plastic segment sector within the Maltese local context. This study is based on empirical evidence of the wage increases in Malta and compares four main categories of salary scales that are widespread in this sector. The trade unions' role in the composition of wages was also delved. In this thesis, besides the economical aspect of wages, attention was drawn on the cultural expectations and attitudes of the Maltese employees.