On 19 February, a statement from one particular branch of the popular Chinese bakery chain Holiland caught the eyes of netizens and media alike. Two cake decorators at the branch received a commendation and reward for working a 29-hour shift in preparation for Valentine’s Day, along with others who worked over 20 hours in that period. The two will also receive a 1,000 RMB (137.37 USD) bonus as a reward.
- #好利来通报表扬员工连续工作29小时Holiland commends employees for working 29 hours consecutively: 75.66 million views on Weibo, no. 1 on Hot Search list.
Most netizens were not impressed with the company’s disregard for the wellbeing of the two employees and felt the statement encouraged overworking. China’s Labour Law prohibits overtime work for over 36 hours per month.
For brands and marketers, it is important to grasp the online sentiments, and currently, there are strong feelings around workers’ welfare. That is why Holiland finds itself in controversy, while JD Takeaway and Meituan received praise after launching social security for delivery riders.
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