After a two-month trial period, DRAFT launched a four-day work setup on July 4, 2022, for promotion of more flexible styles of work.

Social diversification is increasingly progressing in a wide range of fields as a result of the pandemic. To accommodate diversification with an even greater flexibility, we decided to introduce a new work arrangement. We are going to bring diverse styles of work into reality by incorporating a four-day work week, toward the goal of maximizing our creation of value.

Companies that have tried introducing a four-day work week so far have generally also opted for an operation accompanied by curtailment of personnel expenses. In contrast, we conducted a trial operation for achievement of a four-day work week while maintaining levels of remuneration, and decided in favor of full-fledged introduction of the same. The eligible employees are able to work for four days a week instead of the usual five, while receiving their regular monthly salary and bonuses, that is, without a decline in the level of their annual income. To adapt to developments in each employee's life and changes in the life environment, the setup allows selection of use on a quarterly basis. We have high hopes for an improvement of productivity and exercise of creativity. We likewise aspire to be a design company on a higher level while running an organization that flexibly accommodates work-style diversification.

The Covid pandemic spurred the spread of remote work and other practices around the world. In this process, thinking on "work style" is also diversifying. Taking aim at more flexible styles of work, we introduced a four-day work week as a regular option. It will give employees more time for childcare, nursing-type care, acquisition of qualifications to enhance their skills, and side jobs. We think that it will prompt each and every eligible employee to take another look at their work style, and also expect an even greater demonstration of creativity. By proactively incorporating this kind of arrangement, we hope to realize our ideal encapsulated in the watchwords "ALL HAPPY BY DESIGN."

Momoe Fuyo, General Manager, Human Resources, Corporate Division