Flexible foodies
‘Flexible work arrangements allow access to greater work life balance.’ Foodstuffs in Rotorua has come up with an unusual spin on flexible work hours which are generally more easily accommodated in professional environments or office work than in the service and distribution areas.

Inspired by staff who wanted later, more flexible, start times, employees at the distribution centre can choose to start work at 6.00am, 7.00am or 8.00am, and do an eight-hour day from whichever start time they choose. Staff can vary their start times throughout the week to suit their needs. “Most people start at 6.00am but for working parents childcare facilities don’t open until 7.30am.”

Management at the distribution centre believe “15-20 per cent or more” staff use the flexible start arrangements. “Some of our best workers are mothers and women returning to work. This helps them, and ultimately helps us”, plant management say.

FACT: Increasingly employees are looking for flexibility to help balance and integrate their work with family demands while employers need to maintain production targets and enhance productivity.

There are two key elements to flexible working arrangements. Employers agree that hours and/or place of work are other than the traditional 40-hour week worked Monday to Friday and employees have some ability to choose, negotiate or request specific work arrangements.

Benefits of increased flexibility:
-  Allows staff to better accommodate family demands.
-  Helps employers to gain more flexibility from their employees when needed.
-  Attracts prospective staff and is good for a company’s reputation.

For further information contact:
Mark Brittenden or Stephen Thompson
Foodstuffs
Cnr Fairy Springs and Lake Road
ROTORUA

Phone +64 7 348 1084
Email: mark.brittenden@foodstuffs.co.nz  or stephen.thompson@foodstuffs.co.nz