The Japanese division of the Swedish group Ikea has announced drastic changes to employment contracts, including the elimination of fixed-term contracts for part-time workers. The new rules will take effect in September and are intended to create fairer treatment for Japan's 3.400 employees. Among the changes is an increase in wages for part-time workers, who make up 70% of the workforce.
IKEA Japan said it will interview both full-time and part-time workers before making final decisions. However, most of those aware of the announcement were skeptical. "In other words, workers can be fired at any time," commented one person. Others have wondered where the extra funds might come from to pay part-time workers more. “The bonuses will disappear” someone else wondered. “I guess that means more poor quality products,” commented one customer. However, some consumers have shown solidarity with the initiative. “I'm going to shop at Ikea from now on” was a common comment on social networks.
A spokesman for the group has assured that the wages of permanent workers will not be lowered.
Attachments: The Japan Today article
