Japan carmakers rethink factory schedules
AgenciesCarmakers belonging to the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association plan to overhaul their factory work schedules from fiscal 2027, including reducing plant operations on...
Automotive manufacturers in Japan are considering a major shift in their factory work schedules starting in 2027. The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, representing major carmakers such as Toyota Motor Corp and Honda Motor Co, plans to reduce operations on national holidays and weekend days. This change aims to balance work and family time for employees, particularly as dual-income households have become more prevalent.
Under the current schedule, factories remain open on weekday national holidays, with longer shutdowns during the Bon summer holiday and the year-end and New Year holidays. While this arrangement has boosted production efficiency by allowing equipment upgrades and maintenance, it has led to complaints from employees about insufficient family time. Additionally, the auto industry offers fewer annual holidays compared to other sectors, making it less appealing to prospective workers.
The new schedule will see weekdays during the Golden Week holiday period become regular working days, while some Monday public holidays traditionally considered working days will now be holidays. Despite this adjustment, the total number of annual factory operating days will remain the same. The primary objective is to align working days with the general calendar, allowing employees to recharge and enhance productivity in their daily work.
Toshihiro Suzuki, president of Suzuki Motor Corp and vice chairman of the industry group, emphasized this goal during a press conference in May.
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