A Japanese tech company, Trust Ring Co., Ltd., is shaking up traditional workplace norms by offering its employees a unique perk: free alcohol during work hours and paid “hangover leave.” This innovative approach, spearheaded by CEO Takuya Sugiura, aims to create a relaxed and enjoyable work environment, setting the company apart from larger corporations with more conventional benefits.
At Trust Ring Co., Ltd., employees can unwind with a drink or two after work, courtesy of the company’s generous alcohol allowance. If the drinks take their toll, staff members can take advantage of the “hangover leave” policy, which grants them 2-3 hours off to recover and clear their heads. According to CEO Sugiura, this approach prioritizes employee well-being and job satisfaction, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises with limited budgets.
“We really can’t raise the starting salary, so I think that small and medium-sized enterprises should focus on attracting talent with similar ideas,” Sugiura explained. The company’s starting salary is 222,000 yen, approximately ₹1.27 lakh, which already includes pay for 20 hours of overtime.
Some employees appreciate the flexibility and consideration offered by the “hangover leave” policy. As one female employee noted, “Because I used the ‘hangover leave’ system, I can go back to work at 12 o’clock. You can sleep for two or three more hours and come back to work with a clear mind. I feel like I will be more efficient.”
While the effectiveness of this bold strategy in boosting employee morale remains to be seen, Trust Ring Co., Ltd. is confident that its unique approach will attract and retain top talent in the competitive tech industry.