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

The Launch of the 2025 Labor Thanksgiving Week Project

Introduction

Randstad Holdings, a global leader in staffing and workforce services, is excited to announce the commencement of the 2025 Labor Thanksgiving Week project. This initiative aims to promote gratitude among workers, recognizing their contributions and the support they provide to each other. The event will take place from November 10 to November 23, 2025, calling on organizations to participate in fostering a culture of appreciation and acknowledgment.

Founded in Tokyo, Japan, Randstad is headed by Chairman and CEO Junosuke Michigami and President Tetsuya Sarutani. With the understanding that employee engagement and recognition directly influence motivation, the company is taking proactive steps to address the pressing issues of workforce shortages and declining retention rates. According to Randstad’s Employer Brand Research 2025, sufficient appreciation ranks highly among the motivational factors for employees. This emphasizes the necessity for cultivating a society that cherishes Labor Thanksgiving.

The Need for Appreciation in Work Culture

Japan is known for its observance of Labor Thanksgiving Day, yet the significance of this holiday is often overlooked. As the labor market grapples with challenges such as talent shortages, rising turnover rates, and shifting workforce attitudes, the call for a strong recognition culture has never been more urgent. It’s crucial for employers and employees alike to establish good relationships in the workplace and regularly express gratitude to one another. Randstad recognizes that enhancing the spirit of gratitude is essential for building a better work environment, leading to happier employees who feel valued.

Previous Participation and Growth

Last year, 21 companies participated in the Labor Thanksgiving Week. Initially held within Randstad itself, the project expanded to external organizations in 2023, fostering a spirit of community and appreciation among employees from various sectors. Positive feedback from participating companies highlighted the initiative's success in creating a culture where employees are considerate and supportive of one another, particularly in light of the increased isolation from remote work. Comments read, “This created an opportunity for employees to connect better” and “It caused us to reflect on our daily tasks.”

For this year, Randstad has begun featuring examples of last year's activities on its blog starting from September 9, aiming to inspire even more organizations to join the initiative.

Resources for Participating Companies

Participating organizations will find invaluable resources from Randstad, including customized banners and tools for enhancing messages of thanks within their teams. The initiative will culminate in a special networking event post-Labor Thanksgiving Week, designed for sharing successes and discussing employer branding strategies. This event allows for greater exchanges on building a conducive workplace environment and offers companies a platform to discuss the importance of maintaining strong employer branding.

A Word from Randstad's CGO

Tetsuya Sarutani, President and CGO of Randstad Japan, reflects on the cultural importance of Labor Thanksgiving Day. He expressed his aspirations to broaden the appreciation culture that is intrinsic to Japanese society through the Labor Thanksgiving Week. Sarutani hopes this initiative inspires individuals to express gratitude not only to their colleagues but also to themselves, leading to a stronger sense of workplace joy and connection.

Event Overview

• - Dates: November 10 – 23, 2025
• - Special Landing Page: Randstad Thanksgiving 2025
• - Supported by: Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Japan
• - Participation Application: Sign Up Here
• - Application Deadline: November 1, 2025
• - Cost: Free

Through this project, Randstad is committed to promoting a work culture steeped in appreciation. As we prepare for Labor Thanksgiving Week 2025, we invite organizations across Japan to join in making this a shared effort in celebrating the value of work.