economy
How Can Companies Accelerate Productivity Recovery Amidst the New 42-Hour Workweek?
The value of the hour worked has increased with the reduction of working hours and the increase in the minimum wage. Photo: iStock
TL;DR
- Colombia is transitioning to a 42-hour workweek starting July 15, 2026.
- Companies may take until 2030 to recover pre-reduction productivity levels.
- The cost of lost productivity for minimum wage earners is estimated at 134,782 pesos per month for five-day workweeks.
- Sectors like construction, hospitality, tourism, and manufacturing are expected to be significantly impacted.
- Companies working six-day weeks might need an additional worker for every eight or nine employees.
- Proactive strategies include hiring more staff, adjusting shifts, introducing technology, optimizing processes, and training human talent.
- Investing in process improvements, value chain optimization, and outsourcing can increase productivity.
- An optimal workday can reduce absenteeism, lowering costs for companies and the social security system.
- Training professionals and workers is crucial for maintaining competitiveness.
- The transition requires both employer adaptation and worker focus to optimize time usage.