Auckland-based company also offers one-time cost-of-living payment to employees
New Zealand-headquartered Vista Group International has announced that its "half-day Fridays" will now be permanent across its global offices following the scheme's success in productivity and improving workplace culture.
With this development, the technology company's nearly 800 employees in New Zealand, the United States, United Kingdom, South Africa, the Netherlands, and Mexico will permanently have an afternoon off every Friday.
The scheme was initially launched in October 2021 to give employees the chance to "re-charge, get life admin done, or connect with friends and family," according to the Vista Group.
It was popular among employees, said chief executive Kimbal Riley.
"We've seen no impact on productivity with our half-day Fridays. In fact, our regular monthly employee surveys consistently highlight the positive working culture it's created," Riley said in a media release.
Shortened work week schemes have been growing popular across New Zealand as of late. Unilever NZ recently began a four-day work week trial that does not reduce employees' pay.
The company also announced that it will offer a one-off cost-of-living payment to employees who are most impacted by rising inflation across the world.
Without mentioning a specific amount, the company said the initiative is extended amid the "global economic situation" that is burdening its employees.
"We want to make things a little easier and ensure Vista Group remains a great place for our teams to work. We wouldn't be the business we are without the incredible people who show up for us every day," said Anna Ferguson, chief people officer at Vista Group.
A recent report found that 82% of Kiwi workers feel working remotely at least some of the time is better for reducing cost of living.
