Absenteeism in the Balearics hospitality industry was at such a high level that the employers made it a key issue when negotiations for the new collective bargaining agreement were held earlier this year.
It was put at 27.5% in the Balearic hospitality industry in general and at 14.8% in the accommodation sector specifically. At one small Mallorca-based hotel group, MarSenses Hotels & Homes, absenteeism was reduced to below five per cent. This was achieved in the first year that a reduced working week was implemented.
The chain has five establishments in Mallorca and one in Menorca. In 2024, the working week for the entire staff - around 500 - was cut from 40 hours to 38.5. The results were positive in terms of both productivity and employee satisfaction, so the decision was taken to continue with the reduction. In fact, it was cut further to 37.5 hours. A specific adjustment was made for chambermaids aged 58 and over; the week was reduced to 32 hours. Pay hasn't been reduced; there have been pay rises.
Rodrigo Fitaroni is the MarSenses CEO. He began his career in the hospitality industry as a waiter and says that it is precisely his experience in various work areas that allowed him to better understand issues such as absenteeism and staff retention. All managers come from operational positions. "We know what it's like."
"There's a lot of talk about retaining talent, but generally few measures are taken regarding work-life balance; we can talk a lot about corporate responsibility, but the important thing is to take bold and consistent steps."
The increase in productivity is the main argument in favour of this initiative. While it was experimental, it was studied thoroughly. "It wasn't done haphazardly." He explains that revenue per available room has increased and sick leave has been minimised. "Since we reduced the working week, absenteeism has plummeted - dramatically."
Fitaroni argues that reduced working hours should not be at odds with profitability or productivity. "We are trying formulas that no one else has tried." Unions have applauded the company's policies. Sara del Mar García, president of the Kellys Union (chambermaids), which is affiliated to the UGT, says: "This example should be extended to all hotels in the Balearics."