Storm leave or stolen leave? Bakery chain sparks employee outrage

A Hong Kong bakery chain has sparked outrage among employees after allegedly converting typhoon leave into regular days off, prompting accusations of unfair treatment and potential violation of employment laws.

When Typhoon Ragasa struck Hong Kong, prompting the Observatory to issue Signal 8, 9, and 10 warnings over two days, many workers enjoyed roughly a day and a half of storm-related leave. 

However, staff at a well-known bakery chain took to social media to express frustration, claiming the company deducted these typhoon days from their regular leave entitlements. 

One employee argued that the company’s actions seemed to contravene employment regulations, igniting a broader discussion about workplace fairness during natural disasters. 

The bakery responded online, suggesting workers address concerns directly with supervisors or human resources, but this reply failed to satisfy the complainant, who accused the company of dismissive behavior and exploiting legal loopholes.

The employee further revealed that the company later reclassified the deducted leave as “incentive leave” rather than regular rest days. 

This incentive leave, earned for not taking sick days, was meant to reward employees, but workers felt cheated when it was used to offset typhoon-related absences. 

The controversy resonated widely online, with other workers sharing similar experiences, including deductions for storm leave or reduced pay in industries like hospitality, where such practices appear common. 

Many expressed frustration, noting limited options for low-wage workers in these sectors.

Prominent barrister Albert Luk clarified that under Employment Ordinance, employers cannot lawfully deduct annual leave, statutory holidays, or rest days to compensate for time lost due to typhoon signals or severe weather warnings, unless they provide a reasonable justification. 

He advised employees to promptly challenge such practices, suggesting subtle approaches like inquiring with labor authorities to protect their rights without risking their jobs. 

The issue has drawn significant attention, with ongoing inquiries directed at the bakery chain to clarify their policies and address the allegations.