On the 19th, JR Tokai revealed its plan to raise its base salary by 10,500 yen starting in April, alongside a review of job allowances primarily for field employees, which will lead to an average wage improvement of 14,200 yen. This move responds to increasing living costs while also addressing staff shortages, especially concerning maintenance roles, where the company intends to provide additional support through increased allowances. The largest labor union, JR Tokai Union, had initially requested a total wage improvement of 16,000 yen, including 13,000 yen in base raises, marking the highest proposed increase since the current demand system was established in 1993. Furthermore, the company has agreed to provide summer bonuses equaling an unprecedented 3.1 months' salary, an increase over the previous year’s 3.05 months, reflecting a commitment to sustain employee motivation and operational drive.