Meaning
A production planning strategy used by manufacturing facilities to manage the substantial labour shortages and logistics delays associated with the Lunar New Year holiday. This spring festival ramp schedule involves increasing output in the months preceding the holiday and managing a gradual return to full capacity afterward. The period of applicability covers approximately six weeks surrounding the official holiday dates.
Labour Strategy
Recruitment begins months in advance to build a temporary workforce that compensates for the expected departure of migrant workers. Incentives such as attendance bonuses and early return subsidies are offered to maintain a core group of experienced technicians. Retention rates are monitored daily to adjust the production targets based on actual headcount and absenteeism.
Production Inventory
Stock levels for raw materials and finished goods are increased to create a buffer against the closure of sub-tier suppliers and the suspension of inland freight services. Logistics providers often stop operations ten days before the festival starts, requiring early shipments to coastal ports. This buildup ensures that international orders can be fulfilled even when the factory floor is quiet.
Warehousing costs are balanced against the risk of stockouts during the peak demand window.
Capacity Recovery
Full operational speed is reached only after the lantern festival when the majority of workers have returned from their home provinces. Training sessions for new hires are conducted during the first week of resumed operations to ensure quality standards are maintained.