#Japan #Tokyo #Employee Engagement #Randstad #Labor Thanksgiving

Celebration of Work: Labor Thanksgiving Week 2026

Randstad Co., a leading general staffing service provider based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is set to host the Labor Thanksgiving Week 2026 from November 9 to November 23, 2026. This initiative aims to encourage all employees to express gratitude towards their contributions and promote a culture of appreciation in workplaces across Japan. Given that only 60% of Japanese workers feel valued at work, a figure significantly lower than the global average of 74%, this initiative comes at a crucial time.

Understanding the Gap in Employee Sentiment

According to a Randstad survey, the notable disparity in appreciation stems from a lack of communication regarding gratitude and acknowledgment within Japanese workplaces. Conversely, 98% of business executives and HR personnel acknowledge that investing in a healthy work environment is crucial for employee retention. While the need for substantial system investments and structural reforms exists, fostering a culture where appreciation and mutual recognition thrive is central to creating desirable workplaces that enhance employee engagement and retention.

Randstad aims to build upon the significance of Labor Thanksgiving Day, a unique holiday in Japan, to encourage workplaces nationwide to embrace and share gratitude. Through this weeklong celebration, the focus will be on honoring labor and rediscovering the joy of work, nurturing positive work environments, and spreading a culture of appreciation throughout the country.

Expanding the Circle of Gratitude

Originally launched as an internal initiative in 2022, the project has progressively gained traction with participation expanding each year. Last year, a total of 23 companies, including Randstad, participated, implementing various initiatives like exchanging thank-you cards, distributing exclusive gifts, and holding internal events to spread gratitude. Feedback from these initiatives has indicated significantly positive impacts, indicating that they foster an environment where employees genuinely care about one another.

Resources for Participating Companies

Randstad offers participating companies various tools and opportunities for connection. Initiatives and activities from these companies are highlighted on a dedicated webpage. Additionally, selected efforts from some participating companies featured interviews on a specialized site. Each participating company is provided with personalized banners and tools to facilitate the sharing of appreciative messages within their teams. Furthermore, names of participating companies are featured in Randstad's press releases. Following the Thanksgiving Week, an exchange meeting will be held to discuss the outcomes of the initiatives and the importance of employer branding. This gathering serves as a platform for networking and sharing insights aimed at nurturing better workplaces and discussions about employer branding, gaining immense popularity every year.

A Message from Randstad's President

Philosophy around respecting daily labor and practicing mutual appreciation is key during Labor Thanksgiving Day. As we approach the fifth year of Labor Thanksgiving Week, which began as an internal initiative in 2022, the growing support from various organizations is genuinely heartwarming. Expressing gratitude to colleagues, supporters, and oneself reinforces our unique cultural practice and fosters a new standard of mutual appreciation across the nation. We welcome your participation and look forward to collectively spreading a culture of gratitude throughout Japan.

Details and Registration for Labor Thanksgiving Week 2026

• - Event Duration: November 9 (Mon) - November 23 (Mon, holiday)
• - Detailed Information
• - Special Landing Page from last year (2025)
• - Supported by: Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Japan
• - Registration for Participation: Interested companies may register through this form
• - Registration Deadline: November 1, 2026 (Sun)
• - Participation Cost: Free

For more insights, Randstad offers white papers and content dedicated to enhancing workplace culture, available on their official site.

About Randstad Company

Randstad has a vision of becoming the most equitable and specialized service provider in the staffing industry. With operations spanning across 39 countries and a workforce of approximately 38,000, Randstad aims to support diverse labor markets while creating a world with fair opportunities for all employees. By collaborating with clients and understanding the complexities of the labor environment, Randstad remains at the forefront of fostering workplace success and equity.