Germany's largest-ever trial of the four-day workweek found that over 90 per cent of employees reported improvements in well-being, life satisfaction, and work-life balance. The pilot study, organised by 4 Day Week Global in collaboration with the University of Münster and consultancy Intraprenör, involved more than 45 organisations across various sectors, making it one of the most comprehensive studies on the four-day workweek worldwide.
Participants experienced significant benefits, such as reduced stress, improved overall health, and an average of 38 extra minutes of sleep per week. Many also reported increased physical activity. Contrary to concerns about reduced hours affecting output, productivity remained stable or even improved, demonstrating that shorter workweeks can maintain or enhance workplace efficiency.
Dr. Dale Whelehan, CEO of 4 Day Week Global, emphasised that Germany's success in adopting the four-day week sets a precedent for other European nations, saying, "As Europe’s largest economy, Germany's trial paves the way for similar initiatives across the continent." The study showed flexible implementation, with 60% of companies applying the four-day week across their entire workforce and 40% for specific teams.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive results, the trial also revealed some challenges, particularly for large manufacturing firms, with two companies discontinuing the model due to economic pressures. Nevertheless, around 70 per cent of participating organisations plan to continue the four-day workweek, highlighting its growing appeal as a sustainable model for the future of work.
Following Germany's success, other European nations such as Sweden, France, and Belgium are planning their own trials of the four-day week in late 2024 and early 2025.
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