In a region where flexible work in retail is still a work in progress, Lush Middle East claims it has cracked the code, proving that part-time work can be a win for both people and business.
Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics has highlighted its longstanding part-time staffing model – one of the few successfully implemented frameworks of its kind in the Middle East retail sector, the company says.
Introduced in 2018, the model provides young people, students, and job seekers across the UAE and Bahrain with meaningful roles within a values-led business, while maintaining the flexibility required to support diverse life commitments.
As of mid-2025, Lush Middle East employs over 200 part-time team members, including 155 casual sales associates and 42 junior supervisors. Contracts range from a minimum of four to 30 hours per week, with additional shifts available during peak trading periods. This structure enables individuals to earn an income, gain practical work experience, and grow within the company, all while balancing education, family responsibilities, or other employment.
The brand’s flexible staffing model also allows Lush to build larger, more dynamic shop teams that reflect the diversity of its customer base. This approach has proven especially effective in high-traffic locations, such as Lush shops in Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Yas Mall, ensuring that stores are well-staffed during busy periods and can deliver an enhanced level of service. Part-time staff are also offered non-statutory benefits, including generous staff discounts, extended compassionate leave, and early access to end-of-service benefits without needing to complete one full year of service, further reinforcing Lush’s commitment to fairness and wellbeing across all levels of employment.
The success of this model extends beyond the retail environment. Lush’s Middle East head office follows a hybrid structure, with head office staff working from home on Fridays. The end of the week is also observed as a 3.5-hour half-day, and all staff have a minimum of two days off per week, supporting the company’s commitment to employee wellness, work-life balance, and long-term retention, it said.
“Lush has always believed in doing business differently. Our part-time model is more than just filling shifts. It’s about offering opportunity, creating balance, and making work more human,” said Anita Baker, Managing Director at Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics (UAE & Bahrain).
“It’s helped us build strong, inclusive teams and stay adaptable in a world that’s always changing.”
Recent regional research supports Lush’s approach to workplace flexibility. A 2024 white paper published in collaboration with the UAE's Ministry of State for AI, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications highlights that 46% of the UAE's workforce engages in some form of remote work. The paper emphasises that hybrid and remote work models can enhance productivity, inclusivity, and workforce well-being, particularly benefiting women and individuals with caregiving responsibilities.
Additionally, a recent report by the FII Institute, "Global Future of Work Compass", surveyed nine countries in the MENA region and found that embracing flexible work models is crucial for businesses to remain competitive and attract top talent. The report suggests that companies offering these work arrangements are better positioned to meet the evolving expectations of the workforce.
By offering part-time roles, Lush also contributes to national employment goals. The business actively aligns with government priorities such as Emiratisation and workforce diversification, and continues to support the development of young talent in line with the UAE’s vision for a future-ready economy, it said. - TradeArabia News Service
