“Every summer I finish work at noon on Friday, allowing myself to have a side hustle”

One worker told how her company allows staff to finish work at lunchtime every Friday throughout the summer. Employee Kellanova, who owns Kellogg’s and Pringles, said it allowed her to train to become a yoga teacher.

Dozens of employees signed up for a summer program. Employees are free to leave work early as long as they have completed a full week. According to her research, Kellanova said two-thirds of people would be willing to work more during the rest of the week if their employer gave them Friday afternoons off.

Lejla Damon, a shopper marketing manager from Kellanova, said having Friday afternoon off meant she could take extra classes that would lead to her qualification.

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“In my spare time, I’m training to become a yoga teacher and even run a monthly class for my office colleagues,” Lejla said. “During the five years I have worked at Kellanova, the summer program has allowed me time to take additional courses while working toward my degree. This summer, I’m looking forward to teaching a few extra hours on my Friday afternoons.”

The scheme id to run till September. The company employs over 500 people at its office in MediaCity, Salford, and a further 60 in a field sales team.

Chris Silcock, managing director of Kellanova, said: “Our summer program has been running for more than two decades, but it’s still such a huge benefit to our teams. I know how much everyone works during the week, so being able to give people half a day to themselves really helps them recharge and improves productivity.”

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