Lotte Duty Free says it is scaling up its non-face-to-face business infrastructure as it prepares for life after the coronavirus (Covid-19).

The South Korean travel retail powerhouse’s ‘Smart Work System’ includes videoconferencing facilities and regular telecommunications.

It introduced a smart video conferencing system in March, when the virus accelerated, as part of flexible working practices and continues to maintain smooth communications between its overseas and domestic branches (Gimpo, Seoul, Busan, Gimhae and Jeju).

Telecommuting procedures for head office employees, who are split into four groups, are alternated on a weekly basis.

DIVISION OF WORKFORCE

Regular telecommunicating will affect about 25% of staff at the firm’s Seoul headquarters.

Plans are also now in place to split the office into two parts, with approximately 20% of staff working outside the workplace.

Workers in the office will operate according to strict social distancing guidelines, with seats adjusted to ensure maximum physical separation.

The company says it plans to maintain head office staffing levels of up to 55%, with the aforementioned measures hoping to improve business efficiencies and the working environment.

“Lotte Duty Free shop continues to expand and introduce the un-contact business system starting with this pre-emptive action,” commented Joo-Nam Kim, Director of Management Support, Lotte Duty Free.

Lotte Duty Free has been working to protect staff and minimise work congestion since February.

Options have been introduced such as telecommuting for pregnant women and children who need childcare, and expanding the flexible work system and selective work system.