Asda trials 4-day working week amid staff dissatisfaction

Asda, the UK supermarket giant, has recently embarked on a trial of a four-day working week in a bid to improve working conditions and retain staff.

The move comes in response to significant walkouts among senior staff and a threatened strike that was postponed earlier this year.

The trial, which is set to conclude at the end of this month, includes shorter shifts, flexible working arrangements, and a four-day week. The initiative is part of a broader effort to address employee dissatisfaction and high turnover rates.

n anonymous ex-employee told The Sunday Telegraph that Asda was “the worst company I’ve ever worked for,” citing a lack of adherence to processes and a breakdown in communication from above.

The four-day working week trial is not the only measure Asda is taking to improve the working environment.

Since September 2023, the supermarket has been experimenting with a variety of flexible working patterns for managers in 20 stores, including a four-day working week for the same pay and benefits. The feedback from participating colleagues has been very positive, according to an Asda spokesperson.

The move by Asda is reflective of a broader trend towards flexible working arrangements.

Last year, the world’s largest four-day week trial was hailed a major success as 61 companies across the UK reduced their working hours by 20% for six months, resulting in a significant reduction in stress and illness among employees.

However, the four-day working week is not a panacea for all of Asda’s issues.

The supermarket has faced numerous challenges since it was bought from Walmart for £6.8bn three years ago. These include a dramatic decrease in market share, billions of pounds of debt, and ongoing employee complaints.

The trial of the four-day working week is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to turn around the supermarket’s fortunes. Asda’s experiment will provide valuable insights for other businesses considering similar measures, and HR professionals will be watching closely to see the results.

HRD Connect Curators of the New Business Landscape. HRD Connect produces industry-recognized content for senior HR leaders. Through articles, case studies, Q&As, podcasts, events, and more, we offer truly progressive and cutting-edge insights designed to help people leaders address core HR challenges and add greater value to their business.

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