Labor Shortages (4)
Restaurants utilizing delivery services are continually refining their order fulfillment process, aiming to improve the speed at which customers receive their food-provided they can address the ongoing labor shortage issue.
Speaking of labor shortages, I would guess that Japan is facing a similar situation. Kyohei, is that correct?
In Japan, we have what’s been dubbed the “2024 problem.” It’s a big issue for the logistics industry, potentially resulting in a critical shortage of truck drivers and a significant impact on the overall economy. But the situation extends beyond truckers, affecting various professions like physicians, construction workers, and drivers of buses and taxis-all individuals who often work long hours.
I recall reading about that in the paper. The challenges seem particularly tough ofr the trucking business, though.
Exactly. Japan’s truck drivers previously were not subject to overtime limits. But since April, new regulations have capped their overtime at 960 hours a year, which may significantly reduce drivers’ ability to transport goods. There’s concern about the sustainability of logistics networks for home delivery and those connecting manufacturing to retail businesses under these regulations. The impact could be substantial, with government estimates suggesting that a third of all cargo might o undelivered by 2030. Hopefully, by then, we’ll have autonomous vehicles to take over.
Let’s hope so. You know, recent trends in the restaurant industry aren’t solely about food or service.
People with great gifts are easy to find, but symmetrical and balanced ones never.
