TOKYO — McDonald’s Co (Japan) announced on Tuesday that it will be lifting its restrictions on employee hair color in a bid to enhance the working environment and attract more staff amid ongoing labor shortages.
Previously, the fast food chain’s Japanese division mandated that employees’ hair color must appear “natural.” This policy has now been revised to embrace greater diversity in appearance, reflecting a shift towards a more inclusive workplace.
The new policy, which was initially tested at an outlet in Osaka, has yielded encouraging results. The Osaka location reported a threefold increase in new recruits in April compared to the same period last year, signaling a positive reception to the changes.
This move follows a broader trend of companies in Japan adapting their appearance policies. In August 2021, McDonald’s Japan also revised its policy to permit employees to grow beards, accommodating various personal and religious preferences.
Similarly, Starbucks Coffee Japan Ltd. has updated its dress code to allow employees more freedom in their personal style choices. Food & Life Companies Co., which operates the sushi chain Sushiro, has also relaxed its dress code requirements for staff.
By implementing these changes, McDonald’s Japan aims to create a more inclusive and appealing work environment, responding to both current labor market challenges and evolving workplace standards.
