#Japan #Tokyo #Spot Work #Tuna Group

Insights into the Spot Work Market

According to a monthly report by Tuna Group’s Work Style Research Institute, the spot work job market shows significant growth, with the job availability rate reaching 6.07 in November 2025. This marks an increase of 2.07 points from the previous month and indicates a continued trend of growing demand for short-term, flexible work opportunities as companies adjust to seasonal needs.

Rising Job Availability

The job availability ratio in November is notable as it ascends 2.40 points compared to the same month in the previous year. This consistent increase over 18 months signals a robust market, which has been particularly buoyed by rising job offers in light work and warehouse roles. Companies are reported to be actively seeking additional workforce support as year-end approaches, leading to a significant uptick in hiring for these positions.

Decline in Work Volume

While the demand for spot work has risen, the number of assignments available has seen a decline in growth, decreasing by 5.9% year-on-year. This marks the seventh consecutive month that the year-on-year comparison has fallen short of previous figures. However, specific areas like warehouse and light duties have shown a 41.7% increase year-on-year, suggesting a concentration of demand in these sectors.

Competitive Wages

Interestingly, the average hourly wage for spot work stands at ¥1,347, surpassing the standard hourly wage for typical part-time jobs by ¥30. This increase signifies a growing appreciation for flexible labor arrangements where employers are willing to pay a premium for immediate, available workers. The slight increase from the previous month, by ¥23, along with a ¥139 rise compared to the previous year, reflects emerging wage trends in this labor category.

What is the Spot Work Market?

Spot work, characterized by its temporary and short-term employment, includes gig jobs without ongoing employment relationships and project-based roles with defined contracts. Gig work examples include services like Uber Eats, and the market has widened significantly post-pandemic.

Current Market Status

The demand for spot workers has surged dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic altered traditional employment landscapes. Individuals are increasingly motivated to seek additional work due to changes in employment practices and restrictions, while organizations aim to optimize labor costs by employing labor only when needed. Moreover, technological advancements facilitate matching workers to job opportunities efficiently and in real-time.

The Importance of Monitoring the Market

Ongoing observation of the spot work market is crucial for understanding broader economic conditions. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has highlighted the significance of assessing underutilized labor potential, which can inadvertently address broader unemployment challenges. Improved insights into market activities can lead to better policy decisions and a more stable economy.

About the Tuna Group and Work Style Research Institute

Founded in 2015 and based in Tokyo, the Tuna Group runs the Work Style Research Institute, which focuses on diverse employment studies. The institute collaborates with experts on labor laws and human resources to further understand changing work dynamics. With their ongoing research, they aim to pioneer strategies that revolutionize the future of employment in Japan.

For further detailed insights and reports, please visit Tuna Group’s official website: Tuna Group.