A small technology company in Osaka, Japan, is gaining attention for its unconventional employee perks—providing free alcohol at work and offering “hangover leave” to attract young professionals.
Creative Employee Benefits
With limited financial resources to compete with larger corporations, Trust Ring Co., Ltd. has introduced these unique incentives to stand out in Japan’s competitive job market.
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Alcohol at Work & Flexible Recovery Time
Unlike most workplaces where drinking on the job is discouraged, Trust Ring Co., Ltd. not only allows it but actively encourages it. Employees can consume alcohol during work hours, with the CEO personally supplying drinks. If they overindulge, they can use “hangover leave,” permitting them to start work later the next day without any penalties.
One employee shared with Kansai TV that this system actually boosts productivity:
“Because I used the ‘hangover leave’ system, I can go back to work at 12 o’clock. You can sleep for 2 or 3 more hours and return with a clear mind. I feel like I will be more efficient.”
Why Offer This Unusual Perk?
The company’s starting salary is 222,000 yen ($1,500), including 20 hours of overtime—just above minimum wage. CEO Katsuhito Takeuchi acknowledges that raising salaries is unrealistic for small firms, so instead, he focuses on providing an enjoyable and relaxed work culture.
“We really can’t raise the starting salary, so I think small and medium-sized enterprises should focus on attracting talent with similar ideas,” Takeuchi explained.
A Response to Economic Challenges
Since Japan’s economic bubble burst in the early 1990s, wages have stagnated, leaving small businesses struggling to attract workers. While some firms increase salaries, others turn to creative benefits like free drinks and flexible schedules.
A New Workplace Trend?
With Japan’s ageing workforce and declining birth rate, the job market is evolving. While some question the long-term viability of workplace drinking, others see it as an innovative approach to modern work culture.
