Achi Village Launches Spot Work Recruitment for Local Events

Achi Village in Nagano Prefecture has announced an initiative to hire temporary staff for local events through its official employment platform, "Achi Village Matchbox." This government-led project utilizes the system provided by Matchbox Technologies, aiming to boost local employment opportunities and effectively address workforce shortages in the region.

Expanding Employment Options in Achi Village

Nestled in the southern part of Nagano Prefecture, Achi Village is well-known for its stunning natural beauty and clear starry nights. Despite its allure, the village faces significant challenges due to a decreasing working-age population, leading to persistent labor shortages in local businesses. Achi Village aims to mitigate outflux of young people and attract returnees by enhancing flexible work opportunities and employing short-time labor options.

In response to these pressing issues, Achi Village has taken proactive steps to improve its digital job environment and announced the launch of "Achi Village Matchbox" in August 2024. This platform supports various local businesses, including agriculture, welfare, and accommodation services, helping them successfully fill over 200 positions by January 2025.

Additionally, starting from April 2025, the village plans to subsidize the service fees for local businesses to encourage more engagement with the platform, thus bolstering the community’s workforce.

Supporting Tourism with Local Spot Workers

The current recruitment drive focuses on hiring staff for the "Flower Peach Festival," an event that showcases approximately 5,000 peach blossoms at the renowned Tsukikawa Onsen, known as "Hanamomo no Sato." This popular festival occurs between mid-April and early May, drawing numerous tourists. Job responsibilities include parking management, guiding attendees, and general cleaning duties, vital for maintaining the event's success.

Prominent attractions in Achi Village include the famous Hirugami Onsen and the breathtaking night tours that highlight Japan's clearest starry skies. However, local tourism suffers from workforce shortages that are particularly severe in the hospitality and food service sectors due to demographic changes. Securing talent with language skills is challenging, and various operational issues, including long hours and time-off difficulties during peak seasons, exacerbate staff retention problems.

To tackle these concerns, Achi Village has introduced a flexible work model that accommodates short-term employment and sporadic staffing. The new "Achi Village Matchbox" platform offers a safe environment for both community members and local businesses, increasing employment opportunities for those who previously faced barriers to work.

Why Local Governments Should Build an Official Employment Platform

The "Matchbox" platform spearheaded by Matchbox Technologies allows municipalities and businesses to directly manage their workforce needs. By utilizing this system, local governments can optimize job opportunities for residents and enhance the labor supply for local industries. Moreover, municipalities can develop unique employment platforms tailored to their specific challenges through the system, addressing their particular workforce needs and programs.

A key advantage of this initiative is that it ensures a secure and compliant working environment for applicants. The platform's vetting process ensures that only credible jobs are posted, providing applicants with peace of mind. Many features, including automatic calculations for emergency benefits and wage adjustments based on working conditions, promote labor protection for workers while enhancing the usability for businesses.

The Path Forward for Achi Village

Achi Village aspires to foster an inclusive community where flexible employment is attainable for all residents. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at alleviating local labor issues and energizing local businesses. By continuing to refine the platform and engaging in initiatives to post municipal job offers, Achi Village seeks to create a thriving environment where diverse talents can thrive and contribute.

In conclusion, Matchbox Technologies aims to streamline workforce management through digitalization while ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to work flexibly and confidently. The collaboration between local governments and the private sector is crucial for addressing workforce challenges that many communities face today, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future presented by the "Achi Village Matchbox."