Workers Make Possible launches social media campaign against Watsons SG

Health and beauty chain Watsons has said that it does not have a “no sitting” rule, and employees are allowed to take breaks in specific rest areas. This was a response to employees and a workers’ rights group, Workers Make Possible, that claimed that staff must be on their feet eight hours every day, according to The Straits Times. This started when eight former and present employees reached out to Workers Make Possible with their grievances. Then, the group launched a social media campaign that ask Watsons to change the company policy on cashiers and promoters sitting down.

The campaign has gotten 2720 likes with several comments on Instagram. A check by MARKETING-INTERACTIVE, also found netizens calling out brands such as Eu Yan Sang, NTUC Fairprice and Cold Storage, asking the group to look into these organisations. 

The group and a former employee, who was a cashier previously at Watsons, said that the “no sitting” policy comes as the cashiers are not being given a chair.  Another employee, who is still currently working for Watsons, said the only time she is allowed to sit is during her lunch break.

Separately, on an expansion front, Watsons continued its expansion plans as it opened up a new store in Doha, the capital city of Qatar, in January of this year. The new store spans near 3,000 square feet, featuring new zones including the "Natural and Clean Beauty" areas which showcases the brand's sustainable choices products. The store also has an open makeup area, enabling customers to try out different looks and play around with a wide range of the latest and trendiest colour cosmetics.

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