It’s no secret that retail workers are under a significant amount of stress.
Contending with everything from understaffed stores and long hours on their feet to rude customer behavior, it’s no wonder that some companies are finding it necessary to focus on new methods for employee retention.
In an effort “to stay connected to the core of [its] business,” Home Depot will begin requiring its corporate workforce to work shifts in its retail stores.
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Citing a memo issued by Home Depot CEO Ted Decker, Bloomberg has reported that, starting in the 4th quarter, corporate staff will be mandated to work an 8-hour shift each quarter.
In an aim to support retail staff, Decker says the move will allow white collar employees to “truly understand the challenges and opportunities our store associates face every day.” The move applies to everyone, including senior management and remote workers.
Bloomberg called the effort “unusual” for the sector, and suggests Home Depot is feeling the pressure of increased labor activism. Further, the company has experienced a sales slump that followed heavy consumer investment in home renovations during the pandemic.
Home Depot is one of the largest retailers in the US, with more than $150 billion in annual revenue and 450,000 employees.
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