In a shift towards office work, young professionals in London are at the forefront, while many older employees prefer the remote work model, which is hindering the UK’s competitiveness compared to other countries.

A recent survey conducted by the think tank Centre for Cities evaluated workplace habits across major global cities, including London, Paris, New York, Sydney, Singapore, and Toronto. The results revealed that London ranks second lowest in terms of office attendance, with Paris leading and Toronto falling behind.

Data shows that Generation Z Londoners, aged 18 to 24, spend an average of 3.1 days per week in the office, whereas individuals aged 35 to 44 attend the office just 2.5 days on average. Office attendance among those aged 55 and older sees a slight increase to 2.7 days.

Interestingly, 43% of younger workers report they are more productive in an office environment, compared to just 25% who feel they perform best when working from home. This difference might stem from younger employees experiencing limited home workspace and privacy.

Andrew Carter, CEO of Centre for Cities, remarked, “The prevailing assumption is that young workers shy away from the office, but in reality, they are eager to return, while middle-aged or senior employees are the ones who tend to stay away more often.”

Despite 95% of participants acknowledging the advantages of being in the office—such as collaboration and networking—overall office attendance remains lower than pre-pandemic levels in all surveyed cities.

The government is advocating for enhanced rights for flexible workers and is currently considering the introduction of a four-day workweek.

Further analysis reveals that merely 29% of workers aged 34 to 44 and those over 55 report they are most productive when working in an office setting.

Carter elaborated, “The allure of working at home is significantly different for younger individuals who may lack dedicated workspace compared to older employees who might have garden offices or converted sheds for their use. There truly is no substitute for the advantages of in-person communication, particularly for younger generations. Access to diverse activities and experiences common in city offices is vital for both their success and that of their employers.”

Over the past year, the trend towards requiring in-office attendance has increased. Previously, 25% of workers had no obligation to attend the office even once a week; this figure has now decreased to 7%. Additionally, only 9% of employees would seek other job opportunities if employers raised in-office attendance requirements.

Centre for Cities proposes that companies should consider subsidizing commuting costs, akin to initiatives planned by businesses in Paris, to encourage more employees to return to their offices. They also suggest the government could reinstate off-peak travel fare trials facilitated by Transport for London.

Carter posed a pivotal question: “Can the government, London’s mayor, and businesses collaborate effectively? Enhancing face-to-face interactions could significantly benefit the national economy.”

He concluded with optimism regarding London’s potential: “London possesses remarkable assets, such as an outstanding public transport system, robust labor markets, and a wealth of innovative companies. By motivating more individuals to return to the office, the capital can maintain its vital role both nationally and internationally in the future.”