Survey finds exploitation of women in product promotion industry is rife
Most surveyed say they lack legal protection and are often asked to help out with shop work
More than 90 per cent of women working as product promoters in shops feel they are being exploited by their bosses and store operators, according to a labour association's survey.
The Women Workers' Association found that most of the women were not protected by the Employment Ordinance and often had to put up with undesirable working conditions.
Promoters work in small booths rented by their employers in supermarkets or department stores. Their job is to encourage interest in products - ranging from kitchen utensils to food and drink - through special offers, free samples or tastings. They earn an average of HK$300 a day for an eight-hour shift.
The association interviewed 151 promoters and found that 90 per cent of them felt exploited because they were denied employment rights or were made to take on extra duties.
More than 80 per cent were hired on a part-time or temporary basis, which allowed employers to exploit grey areas in the Employment Ordinance.
Only employees who work at least 18 hours a week and have worked continuously for at least four weeks are covered by the law's provisions on welfare, such as sickness pay and maternity leave.