Four-Day Working Week At M&S Store For Better Work-Life Balance
The change has also come to better attract some of the ‘best talent in the industry’.
This follows a successful trial across 100 M&S stores, where 75% of the participating retail managers said the compressed hours had had a positive impact on their family life. 73% also reported having more time for themselves.
According to Simon Pollitt, Store Manager at M&S Stratford-on-Avonsaid: “Working nine days over two weeks means I can get alternative Wednesdays off to look after my one-year-old son, which gives us quality time together and also helping to save money on nursery costs.
“It’s fantastic and feels ground-breaking in our field.”
Sarah Findlater, Group HR Director at M&S, added: “We want M&S to be a great place to work and shop, and that means having engaged colleagues with a good work-life balance.
“Retail is a fast-paced industry but that shouldn’t mean missing out on the moments that matter. Whether caring commitments, the chance to get involved in your local community or to prioritise your own mental and physical well-being.
“We’ve listened to colleagues and are determined to create a cultural shift to flexible working across our stores. Those retail managers taking part in our compressed hours trial agree it’s been a game-changer by giving them more choice and autonomy.
“We’re also always keen to put colleague ideas into action like our new Job Share Finder and are determined to keep exploring ideas that transform the way we work at M&S.”
