In an unprecedented move to enhance employee morale and work-life balance, Pang Dong Lai, a prominent supermarket chain in China’s Henan province, has introduced a unique company policy known as ‘unhappy leave.’
This new policy, announced a few months ago, allows employees to take up to 10 days of additional leave each year if they feel too unhappy to work. The initiative, introduced by the company’s founder and chairman, Yu Dong Lai, reflects a deep understanding of the pressures faced by modern workers.
“Everyone has times when they’re not happy, so if you’re not happy, do not come to work,” Yu stated during an announcement. He further emphasized that denying such leave would be considered a violation of company policy.
This ‘unhappy leave’ is in addition to the generous benefits already offered by Pang Dong Lai. Employees are required to work only seven hours a day, enjoy weekends off, and are entitled to 40 days of annual leave, including five days off during the Lunar New Year. Yu has made it clear that his goal is not to expand the company aggressively but to ensure a “healthy and relaxed life” for his employees.
Yu has also been a vocal critic of the culture of long working hours prevalent in many Chinese companies. In a speech in March 2023, he condemned the practice as “unethical,” reinforcing his commitment to creating a supportive work environment at Pang Dong Lai.
This ‘unhappy leave’ policy comes at a time when loneliness and depression are on the rise across Asia, including in China. A 2021 survey revealed that over 65 percent of employees in China feel tired and unhappy at work. Yu’s initiative is seen as a significant step towards addressing these issues, promoting a healthier work-life balance, and potentially setting a new standard in the corporate world.
Pang Dong Lai, which employs over 7,000 people and operates seven large supermarkets, warehouses, an extensive electronics store, and more than 30 branches, has built a reputation for its meticulous and thoughtful service. Yu’s latest policy underscores the company’s commitment to the well-being of its employees, highlighting the importance of mental health in the workplace.
As loneliness and depression continue to affect millions across Asia, Yu’s ‘unhappy leave’ policy may serve as a model for other companies seeking to prioritize their employees’ mental and emotional well-being.
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