Post-Festival Attrition: How EWA Brings Workers Back

After Diwali, Chhath, Pongal or harvest season, many plants and warehouses see the same pattern: workers go home and a share do not return. Production slows, hiring starts again, and new workers need training. Some of these exits are linked to money: debt taken for the festival, or a better-paying offer near home. Earned Wage Access addresses part of that.

Why workers don't come back

• Festival debt. Workers who borrowed heavily may take work closer to home to repay.
• Unpaid dues. Workers unsure whether they will be paid for days worked before leaving may not return.
• Better offers. Local employers or other cities recruit during the break.
• Family needs. Farming or family responsibilities keep them at home.

How EWA helps

Less festival debt. Workers can use their own earned wages for festival costs instead of borrowing.

Confidence about earnings. Workers can see exactly what they have earned before leaving, and what will be paid.

A reason to return. Workers who value instant access to earnings are less likely to switch to an employer without it.

A return plan for employers

• Before the festival: confirm workers' earned wages and final dues before they leave.
• During the break: keep in touch through WhatsApp or SMS with the return date and any return incentive.
• On return: quick re-onboarding, so work restarts on day one.
• After return: remind workers that EWA is available from their first shift back.

Measure it

Track the share of workers who return within 15 and 30 days after the festival. Compare EWA users with non-users. Use your own data to judge the effect.