Tenya Singapore’s Innovative Approach Attracts New Talent Amid Industry Labor Shortages
After implementing a four-day work week, Japanese restaurant Tenya Singapore has effectively addressed its staffing challenges, successfully filling vacancies that previously had no applicants.
The food and beverage sector has faced significant labor shortages due to the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in overworked staff and difficulties in recruitment. Tenya Singapore, which launched its first outlet in Orchard Central in October 2020, experienced similar struggles, often requiring existing employees to work overtime. Reports indicated that one of the cooks at the branch worked up to 60 hours a week, exceeding the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) stipulated hours for workers in Singapore by 16 hours.
Given the demanding work environment, staff contemplated resigning, but management assured them that steps were being taken to improve the situation, according to The Straits Times. On May 6, 2022, Tenya Singapore announced its new employment strategy via a Facebook post, inviting applications for full-time kitchen and service crew positions.
The post highlighted the company’s commitment to work-life balance, outlining benefits such as a four-day work week, opportunities for career advancement, medical and dental coverage, staff discounts, an Annual Wage Supplement, annual leave, and birthday vouchers.
Under the new arrangement, full-time employees now work 11 hours a day for four days a week, meeting MOM’s 44-hour requirement, while part-timers cover the remaining shifts. Bhakt Yap, Tenya’s administration manager, stated that these changes were crucial for resolving the manpower shortage.
Since the adjustments were made in July, all full-time positions have been filled, with even supervisory staff—initially skeptical about the four-day work week—applying for the roles.
In response to the changes, netizens expressed hope that other companies would adopt similar measures. “This is smart, and all the staff will be super focused for the four work days, knowing there are three days off to look forward to,” remarked Facebook user Andrew Pea Shew Ther. “While a four-day work week usually means longer hours per day, those with family commitments may appreciate having three consecutive days for family time,” added Janice Tan. Another user, Anna Lee, praised Tenya’s management for their proactive approach: “Good for them. The management listened to feedback, adjusted their hours, and even provided a raise.”
