Foxconn Enhances Recruitment Efforts and Bonuses as New iPhone Model Launch Approaches
As the launch of a new iPhone model looms, Foxconn, a major Apple supplier, is intensifying its recruitment drive for the world’s largest iPhone factory. The company has announced that new employees joining its Zhengzhou plant in China will be eligible for bonuses of up to 3,000 yuan ($424; £343) after completing a minimum of 90 days of work.
Furthermore, current employees who successfully refer a friend or family member to join the company will also qualify for a reward, according to a post shared on the popular Chinese messaging app WeChat. The referral bonus for existing employees has been set at 500 yuan if the referred individual remains employed by Foxconn for at least one month.
This move by Foxconn to bolster its workforce and enhance benefits comes as anticipation builds for the highly anticipated release of the iPhone 15, expected to take place in September. The Taiwan-based manufacturer aims to improve the working conditions and incentives for its employees at the sprawling factory, often referred to as “iPhone City.”
Protests Erupted and Delays Plagued Foxconn’s Zhengzhou Plant Amidst COVID Restrictions
In a tumultuous turn of events last year, the Zhengzhou plant owned by Foxconn faced significant challenges as workers voiced their discontent over COVID-related restrictions and alleged unpaid wages. Disturbing videos surfaced online in October, capturing individuals scaling a fence outside the locked-down Foxconn factory during a coronavirus outbreak.
The repercussions were felt when Chinese authorities imposed a lockdown on a district in Zhengzhou, where the renowned “iPhone City” is situated. As a result, Apple issued a warning in November, anticipating delays in the shipment of the highly anticipated iPhone 14. In response, Foxconn adopted a strategy to recruit new employees, enticing them with promises of increased bonuses.
However, a report revealed a different side of the story. One worker disclosed that contractual changes prevented them from receiving the promised subsidies, and they were subjected to quarantine without adequate food provisions. Foxconn responded to these allegations, acknowledging a technical error during the onboarding process. The company insisted that the wages for new recruits remained consistent with the terms outlined in official recruitment posters.
The immense Zhengzhou plant, employing over 200,000 individuals, remains a critical hub for Apple, producing various devices, including the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max.
