Key Facts
• In 2025, 79% of SMEs provided summer bonuses, survey by F&M.
• Average bonus amount for SMEs was in the 200,000 yen range.
• Listed companies’ average bonus: 862,928 yen, over double that of SMEs.
• 28% of SMEs increased bonuses, citing base pay hikes and inflation.
• 64% of SMEs maintained bonus levels; 8% reduced or skipped payments.
• Top bonus criteria: individual performance (1,544 firms), company performance (1,405 firms).
• Challenges: bonus evaluation standards (922 firms), securing funds (776 firms).
• Survey conducted online with 2,875 SMEs from June 1–30, 2025.
Summary
A 2025 survey by F&M revealed that 79% of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Japan provided summer bonuses, with amounts averaging in the 200,000 yen range-less than half the 862,928 yen average for listed companies. While 28% of SMEs increased bonuses due to base pay hikes and inflation, 64% maintained previous levels, and 8% reduced or skipped payments. Bonus criteria were primarily tied to individual performance and company results. However, challenges such as rigid bonus systems, difficulty in securing funds, and limited impact on employee motivation were highlighted. The survey included 2,875 SMEs and was conducted online in June 2025.
