Why Germany is launching a six-month trial of 4-day work week, from Feb 1
Germany’s struggle to revive its sluggish economy is about to take an experimental turn as a host of companies test out the merits of working less. A six-month program starting Feb. 1 will grant a day off every week for hundreds of employees while keeping them on full pay. The study aims to find out if labor unions are right that it could not only leave staff healthier and happier, but also more productive.
“I’m absolutely convinced that investments in ‘new work’ pay off because they increase well-being and motivation, subsequently increasing efficiency,” said Sören Fricke, co-founder of event planner Solidsense, one of 45 companies taking part in the pilot. “The four-day week, if it works, won’t cost us anything either in the long run.”
The project underscores a broader shift taking place in the German labor market, where a lack of skilled workers is putting pressure on companies to fill their ranks. The shortage — coupled with high inflation — has emboldened employees across industries to seek wage increases and preserve the flexibility and independence they gained during the pandemic.
About 45 companies in Germany will trial a four-day work week to measure any productivity gains from working fewer hours.
The imbalance is fueling employer-employee tensions. Germany’s train drivers are currently holding a six-day strike, demanding that Deutsche Bahn cut the work week to 35 hours from 38 hours without any wage reduction. The country’s construction union is asking for a pay rise of more than 20% for many of its 930,000 workers — a move some economists warn could stoke inflation.
According to an industry lobby survey last year, half of German companies are
