Japan’s Tight Labor Market Forces Corporate Makeover on Dress Codes

A growing number of Japanese firms are relaxing strict corporate appearance rules. They are scrapping bans on dyed hair and nail polish. This shift is a direct response to a severe labor shortage.

Companies, especially in retail, are struggling to attract workers. They are now offering more personal freedom to secure staff. This marks a significant cultural change in Japan’s traditional business environment.

Retailers Lead the Charge in Scrapping Old Rules

Major discount chain Don Quijote relaxed its rules three years ago. According to Reuters, nearly a quarter of its employees now have brightly colored hair. When brown hair is included, over half of its staff have non-black hair.

Other retailers are quickly following suit. Fuji Yakuhin drugstores now allow any hair color, nail art, and heavy makeup. Tokyu Store supermarkets have also dialed back restrictions on piercings and accessories. These changes are becoming a key hiring tool.

Labor Crunch Drives Historic Policy Shifts

Japan’s working-age population has been declining for decades. A recent Reuters survey shows two-thirds of Japanese firms feel serious business impact from the labor shortage. This has triggered fierce competition for part-time and full-time workers.

Young job seekers now have more power. A Mynavi survey found one-third of students withdrew applications due to dress codes. They seek a sense of freedom and comfort in their jobs. This pressure is forcing companies to modernize their policies.

The relaxation of corporate dress codes represents a fundamental shift in Japan’s workplace culture. This move is essential for companies to survive the intense competition for talent. The Japan labor shortage is rewriting the rules of corporate life.

Thought you’d like to know-

Why are Japanese companies changing their appearance rules now?

Japan faces an acute labor shortage due to its aging population. Companies can no longer afford to turn away potential workers with strict, outdated dress codes. They are adapting to attract a younger generation.

Which companies have recently relaxed their rules?

Major firms like Don Quijote, Fuji Yakuhin, and Tokyu Store have all eased restrictions. Japan Airlines, Tokyo Metro, and Skymark Airlines now allow staff to wear sneakers. The trend is spreading across industries.

How are young workers influencing this change?

A survey by Mynavi found a third of students withdrew job applications over dress codes. Young people prioritize personal freedom and comfort, forcing employers to listen or lose out on talent.

Are all appearance restrictions being lifted?

Not entirely. Tattoos are still generally required to be concealed. Multiple facial piercings also remain largely unacceptable. The changes focus mainly on hair color, nail polish, and some accessories.

Have all traditional Japanese companies adopted these changes?

No, many large, traditional firms like Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp maintain informal expectations for conservative appearance. The changes are most prevalent in retail and service sectors hit hardest by the labor crunch.