Solution: A variety of promotional products were used to reward workers for attendance and other good work habits.
At the beginning of each quarter during the one-year program, imprinted coffee mugs (a different color and inscription each quarter) were presented to workers with perfect attendance. Different mugs each quarter gave workers a renewed sense of competition to earn the mug unique to the current quarter. In addition, the company created the “Just Do It” awards to recognize individuals who demonstrated positive acts in the workplace, going above and beyond the basic job description. The award was a compressed t-shirt in the shape of a running shoe as well as a bright yellow promotional lunch cooler. The items, including the coffee mugs, were all presented by management on the factory floor in front of the workforce, increasing the competitive aspect of the program.

Result: Attendance improves, eliminating production shutdowns.
The company experienced no line shutdowns for the entire length of the campaign, the first such occurrence in three years. Attendance improved 268 percent with every facility reporting record attendance.