In early February, 31 companies in Germany began a “four-day” work week pilot. The initiative is being led by not-for-profit company, 4 Day Week Global (4DWG), and management consultancy, Intraprenör. Another 14 companies are joining the initiative in March.
The German public research university, University of Münster, will carry out a scientific evaluation of the six-month-long trials, in which up to 600 employees are expected to participate… More here.
After a few years working 4 day weeks (9 hours) and with the experience of moving back to working 5 days a week I can categorically say that a 4 day working week is far superior.
You may be thinking that I am stating this from my own perspective, but that is not the case. Every single person I know who has worked 4 days weeks prefers it. They are more productive, they are less tired and they can get lots of things done that normal life throws at them on the 5th day off.
It is good for mental health, organisation and despite some accommodations being required by the employer (cover for staff etc) I can be 100% sure that 4 is better than 5 in this case.