Labor shortages push more Japanese companies to loosen dress codes
Many Japanese companies are letting workers have more freedom in how they look at work. Hair color, nail polish, and even accessories are no longer strictly controlled at some companies.
This change comes because Japan has fewer young workers and companies are competing to hire and keep staff.
Hinako Mori, 22, moved to Tokyo last year and works part-time at Don Quijote, a discount store. She dyes her hair in blonde, blue, and other colors. At her old job at a convenience store, hair had to be black or dark brown. “It was very stressful,” she said.
Don Quijote relaxed its hair and nail rules three years ago. Now, almost a quarter of its workers have brightly colored hair, and over half have hair that is not black.
Other companies are following. Drugstore chain Fuji Yakuhin now allows any hair color, nail art, heavy makeup, and rings. Supermarket chain Tokyu Store also relaxed rules on hair color, nail polish, piercings, and accessories.
Japan has slowly softened dress rules over the past 20 years. For example, the 2005 “Cool Biz” campaign encouraged lighter clothes in summer to save energy. Some companies removed uniforms, and taxi drivers no longer must wear white gloves.
Labour shortages are serious. Japan’s working-age population has fallen 16 percent since 1995. Two-thirds of companies say they have problems finding workers. Younger employees especially want more freedom. A survey found that two-thirds of students believe they should choose how they look at part-time jobs, and one-third have refused jobs because of strict dress rules.
Some limits remain. Facial piercings and tattoos are still restricted. Traditional companies may not write rules but expect employees to “not create waves” with their appearance.
Edited using generative AI tools.
Source : https://www.australiannews.net/news/278700202/labour-shortages-push-more-japanese-companies-to-loosen-dress-codes
|
