It is no surprise that many of the impacts from the pandemic feel irreversible. Office attendance is one of them, with five-day working weeks feeling like a distant memory. On top of that, the cost-of-living crisis and increased transport costs have threatened London’s ecosystem and put pressure on its community, especially for businesses that rely on a regular footfall from visitors and office workers alike.
This is because there are multiple benefits of hybrid working, including the impact of greater flexibility on commuters’ work-life balance, and providing office workers with an opportunity to relieve pressure from the cost-of-living crisis that continues to bite.
But after three years of working from home, Gen Z (aged 18-24) are ready for this to change. New research conducted amongst working professionals in London reveals that four and five-day weeks in the office are making a comeback amongst the younger generations. Over half of Gen Z workers plan to increase their office attendance in 2023 as they renounce the ‘WFH’ trend. This is in stark contrast to their older colleagues, who prefer just one to two days in the office given the choice.
The shift to hybrid working patterns has compounded feelings of loneliness and isolation amongst the younger generation as over half admit they can go for hours without speaking to anyone during a working day at home. But younger generations are determined to turn this around.
The research shows Gen Z’s return to the office is driven by the desire for making the most of London’s vibrancy and character, with a strong desire for cultural events, nice outdoor spaces for lunch breaks and opportunity to spend time in a vibrant and exciting part of the city. In fact, Gen Z are twice as likely than their older counterparts to treat themselves to nicer lunches when working from the office or eat out in expensive cafes and restaurants with colleagues.
It is not just getting out of the home office that is a draw for younger generations. It is the opportunity to experience the best of what London has to offer after working hours.
This trend reflects the generation’s desire for high-quality experiences and the importance of socialising in creating a sense of community. The research shows Gen Z are prepared to put their money towards better quality restaurants when it comes to going out (41%) and are more likely than any other age group to do so.
Despite the cost-of-living crisis impacting daily life, half of Gen Z workers feel optimistic for the year ahead. They are balancing their premium going-out choices by making the most of free activities to do in London, such as walking around and enjoying its history.
This underlines the importance of projects such as our partnership with Westminster City Council on the £22m regeneration of Strand Aldwych. It is vital that these initiatives continue to thrive, ensuring that London retains the vibrancy and buzz that sets it apart on the world stage.
London has historically been the epicentre of business in the UK and has shown huge resolve in the face of successive challenges. We must harness the passion and drive of the younger generations as they return to the city and support its revival by investing in environments that foster creativity, innovation, and collaboration to attract workers back into the office.
