Survey on subcontracting in companies

The aim of this survey is to improve our statistical understanding of subcontracting within firms, a widespread organisational model across the economy; by shedding light on the relationships between economic actors, such a study enables us to move beyond sector-specific analysis. Indeed, the analysis of client-supplier relationships, whether within groups, outside groups through subcontracting arrangements, or via market relationships, enriches the analysis of the productive apparatus by describing the interdependence of actors and their organisational choices within a value chain framework. The survey thus aims to better characterise the use of subcontracting, from the perspective of both contracting firms and subcontractors.

The limited information produced by INSEE on subcontracting comes mainly from three statistical sources covering restricted sectoral fields. Thus, the Annual Sectoral Survey (ESA) and the Annual Production Survey (EAP) enable the collection of information on subcontracting received, but only for the transport and storage and manufacturing sectors. The Sector Surveys focus on specific industrial sectors (automotive; aerospace; pharmaceuticals) and therefore do not cover the traditional scope of business statistics (enterprises in primarily market-oriented sectors). Finally, tax returns provide an indication of the value of subcontracting work, but this information is insufficient to inform the public debate on subcontracting. In the 2000s, some surveys touched upon subcontracting, but without making it their central theme (the 2002 survey on inter-company relations, and the 2006 survey on organisational change and computerisation).

The aim of this survey is therefore to gather:

• quantitative baseline data on subcontracting, whether as a contractor or a subcontractor, both in France and abroad;

• information on the activities that are subcontracted, as well as on the geographical locations of subcontractors;

• information regarding the benefits and risks perceived by companies in relation to subcontracting, as well as their outlook in this area.

The 2025 Survey on subcontracting in business is the second edition of this survey, following the 2022 survey based on 2021 data.

Survey

Punctual or aperiodic