Foxconn, a major Apple supplier, is intensifying its efforts to attract additional workforce for the largest iPhone factory in the world ahead of the imminent launch of a new model.
The iPhone 14 was released in September 2022
Apple supplier Foxconn is ramping up efforts to recruit more workers for the world's largest iPhone factory, ahead of the launch of a new model.
To entice new employees at its Zhengzhou plant in China, Foxconn is offering bonuses of up to 3,000 yuan ($424; £343) if they remain in their positions for a minimum of 90 days. Existing workers who successfully refer friends or family members will also be eligible for rewards, according to the company.
The highly anticipated iPhone 15 is scheduled for release in September.
According to a post viewed by the BBC on the popular Chinese messaging app WeChat, Foxconn employees who refer a new hire will receive 500 yuan if the recruit stays with the company for a month.
This initiative represents the latest step taken by the Taiwan-based manufacturer to enhance the benefits provided to its workforce at the sprawling facility commonly known as iPhone City.
When approached for comment, a Foxconn spokesperson declined to provide a statement to the BBC.
Foxconn faced significant challenges last year, including employee protests at the Zhengzhou plant related to Covid-19 restrictions and allegations of overdue wages. In October, videos circulated online showing individuals scaling a fence surrounding the Foxconn factory after it was placed under lockdown due to a coronavirus outbreak.
In November, Apple issued a warning that shipments of the iPhone 14 would experience delays following a lockdown imposed by Chinese officials on a district in Zhengzhou, where iPhone City is located. In response, Foxconn sought to recruit new workers by promising increased bonuses.
However, a Foxconn worker informed the BBC that the contracts were altered, resulting in the workers being unable to receive the promised subsidies. The worker also mentioned being subjected to quarantine without access to food.
Foxconn responded by stating that a "technical error occurred during the on boarding process" and clarified that the payment for new recruits remained the same as stated in the official recruitment posters.
Employing over 200,000 individuals, the Zhengzhou plant plays a crucial role in the production of Apple devices, including the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max.
