Germany Will Trial Four-Day Workweek at 45 Companies

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A broad four-day workweek trial is set to launch in Germany this week.  

The country is preparing for a six-month trial of the shortened workweek which is slated to start on February 1. The trial encompasses 45 companies and is organized by 4 Day Week Global — a New Zealand-based non-profit, known for organizing similar trials. The four-day workweek is being experimented with by employers as a possible tactic for achieving greater attraction and retention. 

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The trial, according to The Times of India, is looking to see if a shorter work week can improve employee health, happiness, and productivity. It’s reported that the decision comes amid economic challenges in Germany including skilled worker shortages and high inflation. 

The modified schedule will see employees working fewer hours for the same pay, but for the trial to be considered a success, participating employees are expected to maintain or increase their productivity during the workweek.  

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Some experts believe the trial could lead to fewer sick leaves and less burnout, thereby reducing economic losses in Germany. It’s reported that the trial is being watched closely by policy makers in Germany as the country has a high number of part-time workers, and a successful outcome could attract more talent. 

However, the idea of a shorter workweek has faced criticism from Germany’s Finance Minister, Christian Lindner, who fears it could harm Germany’s economic growth, according to a report published by Bloomberg. Despite this, 4 Day Week Global can point to the success of similar trials in the U.S., Canada, U.K., and Portugal. It’s reported that during these trials, the participants reported better mental and physical health. 

The upcoming trial in Germany shows how global interest in the four-day workweek is slowly increasing among employers.  

These initiatives represent the possibility for major changes in work cultures worldwide, and they also coincide with the rise in employee demands for flexible work arrangements for better work-life balance and productivity in the future of work.  

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