casualization

British  

/ ˌkæʒjʊəlaɪˈzeɪʃən /

noun

1. the altering of working practices so that regular workers are re-employed on a casual or short-term basis

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Example Sentences

This casualization of trail running spurred sneaker companies to expand a once-niche footwear category: gravel or road-to-trail shoes, which are being specifically marketed to beginner trail runners.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

The 20-year casualization trend — with sneakers rising from 20% of market share of footwear sales to 50% — culminated with Covid and is largely complete, they said.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 6, 2026

“COVID was an accelerator for casualization and that’s really expanded the wearable occasions for sneakers and comfort footwear,” Duffy said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 24, 2024

"It seems that management's narrative of an expanding casualization trend in workwear and potential European and Asian growth is not resonating with investors," he said.

From Reuters • Oct. 5, 2023

“Across the board, there’s an increasing casualization of every occasion, including at work,” Smith said.

From Washington Post • Mar. 7, 2018