The supermarket sector in the Sorocaba region of São Paulo, Brazil, currently has over 2,200 job openings spread across approximately 60 cities. Despite the abundance of opportunities, businesses are struggling to fill these positions due to the demanding work schedules that frequently require employees to be available on weekends and holidays. This concern has led some supermarket chains to explore more flexible work models to attract potential candidates.

Many companies report that the rigid work hours are the biggest barrier to hiring, which has been echoed by candidates seeking employment. Pedro Macedo, a human resources supervisor, emphasized that the nature of retail jobs demands a high level of availability, making it difficult for individuals with other commitments to consider these positions. In his view, the challenge lies in balancing the store's operational needs with potential employees' personal lives.

Candidates have also expressed their dissatisfaction with the work schedules. For instance, Ana Paula Ramos da Rocha, a job seeker, conveyed her frustration with the current system, highlighting the fact that the workweek often resembles seven-day commitments with just one day off. Her suggestion for a more favorable arrangement, such as Monday to Friday work, reflects a broader desire for improved work-life balance in the retail sector.