Sushi Chain Relaxes Dress Code, Allows Hijabs
For many customer-facing jobs in Japan, dyeing your hair or wearing colored contact lenses is not allowed, as it's often thought of as unprofessional.
But at Sushiro, one of Japan's most popular sushi chains, the dress code isn't so strict — not anymore, anyway.
The chain announced that starting from November 1, 2023, it would be relaxing its dress code, and now staff are able to work with dyed hair.
Sushiro staff can also wear colored contact lenses and wigs — both of which were previously not allowed.
Over 40,000 people of "all nationalities, genders, and ages" work at Sushiro chains across the country, the company said.
Food & Life Companies, Sushiro's parent company, said it wants Sushiro to be a place where staff can show their individuality, which in turn will give customers a better experience.
Another change Sushiro has made to its employee dress code is to allow its staff to wear hijabs, the head coverings worn by some Muslim women.
The sushi chain is also allowing its employees to have beards — something that's important for some Muslim men.
Only around 0.2% of people living in Japan are Muslim, but strict dress codes around the country make it difficult for them to find jobs where they are able to openly practice their religion.
Staff wearing hijabs will need to tuck them into their uniforms, and those with beards will need to wear masks.
But this is a big change for a company in a country known for its strict employee dress codes.
