Beijing: Fat Dong Lai, a Chinese supermarket chain, has introduced a unique annual benefit called ‘Sad Leaves,’ allowing employees to take up to 10 days off per year for sadness without the need for managerial approval.
According to international media, employees of Fat Dong Lai can avail themselves of these leaves if they feel too sad to come to work, and these leaves cannot be denied by their managers. This policy is designed to acknowledge and support employees’ emotional health, recognizing the natural human experiences of sadness and stress.
Yu Dong Lai, the owner who started his first store in 1995, mentioned that it is human nature to have days when one feels down. He believes that when employees take leave due to sadness, they can feel happy again. This practice helps them understand that the company supports them and they can maintain a balance between their work and personal life.
This new ‘sad leave’ is aimed at combatting workplace burnout and ensuring a balanced work-life for the employees. Fat Dong Lai employees already receive 40 days of annual leave, plus an additional 5 days off during the Chinese New Year when the stores are closed.
The company, known for its employee-friendly policies, offers several unique perks such as blood pressure checks, handbag care, and pet feeding stations, enhancing its reputation for customer and employee care. Furthermore, Fat Dong Lai’s staff enjoy a relatively lenient schedule that includes a seven-hour workday, five days a week, contrasting sharply with China’s infamous 996 work culture.
Fat Dong Lai also compensates its employees up to 5,000 yuan for grievances suffered at work, such as customer insults or threats, reinforcing its commitment to creating a supportive and safe work environment.
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