#Japan #Tokyo #KURANDO #Logistics Sector #Labor Retention

Introduction

In recent times, the logistics industry, buoyed by the boom in e-commerce, has faced a surge in workload. However, this increase is marred by a persistent labor shortage, making it difficult for companies to recruit and retain staff in their warehouses. A striking revelation from a survey conducted by KURANDO, a company based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, shows that over 85% of HR representatives in firms with logistics warehouses feel challenged both in hiring and keeping warehouse personnel.

Background

The ongoing demand in the logistics sector can be primarily attributed to the impressive growth of e-commerce. Yet, despite this opportunity, businesses encounter a significant hurdle: a chronic lack of qualified personnel. Many organizations lament the frequent turnover rates of hired workers, leading KURANDO to investigate the various challenges of recruitment and retention faced by companies with warehouse operations.

Survey Overview

KURANDO recently conducted a survey from August 27 to September 1, 2025, targeting HR professionals aged 20 to 50 working in logistics warehouses. A total of 314 participants provided insight into their struggles.

Key Findings

1. High Percentage of Concern: Over 85% of HR professionals expressed that they face challenges in recruiting and retaining warehouse employees.
2. Recruitment Hurdles: The main issues identified in the recruitment process included a low number of applicants (48.5%) and the inability to find suitable candidates (43.8%). High recruitment costs also pose a challenge for 33.1% of respondents.
3. Retention Rates: More than 60% of HR representatives believe that the one-year retention rate for newly hired warehouse staff is below 70%, with a significant number citing figures less than 60%. This trend highlights widespread concern regarding employee commitment in the sector.
4. Engagement Challenges: Regarding retention and employee engagement, primary concerns included low wages (45.6%) and the monotonous nature of warehouse tasks that can diminish motivation (41.5%). 34.2% of respondents also mentioned rigid shift schedules that complicate time-off approvals as a barrier to maintaining a committed workforce.
5. DX Tool Adoption: Approximately 75% of respondents are contemplating or have already implemented digital transformation (DX) tools to enhance recruitment, retention, and engagement of warehouse staff.

Summary of Challenges

The survey results paint a daunting picture of the current labor market in the logistics sector. The overwhelming sentiment among HR professionals indicates that recruiting new workers and retaining existing ones significantly hampers operational efficiency. With many expressing a crucial need for applicants and a clear disconnect between available positions and qualified candidates, radical changes in recruitment strategies may be necessary.

Addressing Challenges with Technology

To tackle these issues, KURANDO actively provides three innovative solutions aimed at boosting productivity and efficiency in logistics centers:

• - Logimeter: This tool allows users to manage productivity and profitability effortlessly and accurately, shedding light on previously hard-to-obtain performance metrics.
• - Logiscope: By aggregating and analyzing data from various sources, it facilitates a transparent view of operational performance, aiding organizations in optimizing their logistics processes.
• - Logiboard: This interface streamlines data handling, enabling staff to focus on decision-making instead of getting lost in data management.

These solutions not only help convert monotonous tasks into more engaging workflows but also enhance employee satisfaction and retention through visible performance improvements. With designated support, KURANDO assists companies in gradually integrating these tools, fostering an environment conducive to workforce stabilization.

Conclusion

The insights garnered from KURANDO's survey underscore the pressing challenges that over 85% of HR professionals are experiencing regarding recruitment and retention in logistics warehouses. By understanding the prevalent issues — primarily low applicant numbers and employee dissatisfaction — companies can strategize effectively. KURANDO stands ready to aid organizations in addressing these hurdles, ultimately enhancing employee engagement and productivity within the logistics realm.

About KURANDO

KURANDO, headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, specializes in providing platforms designed to enhance the visibility of warehouse operations.
Visit us at KURANDO for more information on our services.