The Dynamic Workplace: From hybrid to human-centred 

Research published in April 2025 revealed a concerning statistic: 

only 10% of UK workers feel engaged in their roles and 17% feel lonely and isolated. Yet they’re also resistant to return-to-office mandates, with only 42% indicating they would comply.  

10% feel engaged, 17% feel lonely, 42% would comply with return-to-office mandates

 

To square this circle and shore up retention, companies are pivoting away from remote working and towards the creation of human-centred spaces. The goal is to draw people in and foster a sense of belonging, nurturing wellbeing and performance in one.  

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This comes through loud and clear in Co-Creating Exceptional Workplaces, our deep dive into worldwide shifts in employee expectations and business priorities. Packed with valuable insights for our UK clients, this comprehensive report shares global benchmarks along with practical suggestions for sidestepping the retention crisis and creating productive, future-proof workplaces. 

Download our deep dive Co-Creating Exceptional Workplaces

Turning wasted space into the place to be…

To tackle rising cost pressures and dwindling productivity, UK employers are bringing people back to the office. But while improving occupancy boosts efficiency, retention and engagement rely on something deeper. Our report reveals that employees need more than a desk and a salary to work at their best; they need a workplace experience that makes them feel connected, supported and in control. 

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Here’s a quick summary of the emerging global themes that can help UK employers to plan ahead: 

What employees want: 3 top trends 

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Investing in the right place at the right time  

Before the pandemic, 52% of global employers were planning to prioritise the employee experience. Between 2021 and 2024, it was 92%. Yet rising occupancy cannot turn the tide on ill health and disengagement on its own. 

Our report identifies a shift in approach from employers:     

How companies are responding: 3 big bets

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Through global research that sets the benchmark for good practice and accurate data that enables employees to personalise their world, we create a dynamic workplace experience that keeps employees energised, supported and ready to do their best. 

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