In a bold move to prioritize the well-being of its employees, Dongpo Paper company, based in Guangdong province, China, has abandoned traditional year-end performance-based bonuses. Instead, the company has introduced an innovative monthly reward system that ties bonuses to employees' physical activities. This revolutionary approach, spearheaded by Chairman Lin Zhiyong, seeks to foster a healthier lifestyle among the workforce, recognizing the intrinsic link between employee health and the overall success of the company.

Monthly Bonus Tied to Exercise Milestones
Under this groundbreaking scheme, employees earn their full monthly bonus by accomplishing a minimum of 50 km through various physical activities. Those covering 40 km receive 60% of the bonus, while 30 km equates to a 30% bonus, as reported by the South China Morning Post. Exceptional performers achieving the 100 km milestone are rewarded with an additional 30%. The company also acknowledges alternative activities such as mountain hiking and speed walking, attributing 60% and 30%, respectively, to the overall exercise calculation, which is meticulously monitored through apps on employees' phones.
 

Chairman's Vision and Personal Commitment
Chairman Lin Zhiyong, who has climbed Mount Everest twice, practices what he preaches, leading by example and encouraging his 100-plus employees to prioritize sports and fitness. Emphasizing the profound connection between employee health and a thriving company, Lin stated, "A company can last long when its employees are healthy." His personal commitment adds credibility to the initiative and underscores the company's dedication to creating a workplace that values both physical and financial well-being.

Positive Employee Feedback
The company's official WeChat account reported overwhelmingly positive feedback from employees, with the majority qualifying for the full bonus. One employee aptly expressed the sentiment, saying, "The scheme kills two birds with one stone – we can get both health and money." This positive response indicates that employees appreciate the dual benefits offered by the program.

Public Reception and Divergent Opinions
While Dongpo Paper's initiative has gained traction on Chinese social media, opinions are divided. Supporters applaud the company for promoting a healthier lifestyle and recognizing the importance of physical well-being. However, some caution that existing health conditions should be taken into account to ensure fairness and inclusivity.

 

A Broader Trend in Employee Well-Being
Dongpo Paper's move is indicative of a broader trend observed in companies worldwide, where organizations are redefining traditional bonus structures to prioritize employee health and well-being. In 2019, the Beijing Institute of Graphic Communication similarly encouraged physical activity by offering incentives tied to step counts, showcasing a growing recognition of the link between employee health and organizational success.


Dongpo Paper's shift towards incentivizing employee well-being is a pioneering step in creating a workplace culture that values health as a cornerstone of wealth. The innovative bonus system not only reflects the company's commitment to its employees' holistic development but also sets an example for other organizations to reconsider their approaches to employee compensation and well-being.