Germany Testing Four-Day Work Week

At least 45 German companies and organizations will trial a four-day work week starting in February for the next six months. The news was reported by Stern, citing the DPA news agency.

“From February and during the following six months, businesses will attempt the four-day work week based on a model of fulfilling 100% of commitments for 80% of the time and utilizing the workforce at 100% efficiency,” Stern emphasizes.

During the trial, participants will have the opportunity to learn new techniques, consult with experts, and exchange experiences with other participants, according to Stern. Preparations including specific seminars will be conducted before February.

The scientific implementation of the program is being managed by the University of Münster (Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster) in Germany. Reports indicate that more than half of the program participants are small enterprises, with employee numbers ranging from 9 to 48. 14% of the participants are large companies that employ more than 249 full-time workers.