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10th March 2025 – London, United Kingdom 

New data from Great Place To Work’s latest European-wide survey, the European Workforce Study 2025, involving nearly 25,000 employees across 19 countries reveals a striking contrast between employee and employer preferences when it comes to work arrangements. When employees have a choice, the majority opt for hybrid work. However, when employers dictate the terms, the vast majority push for onsite work. 

So why are more and more companies mandating a return to the office? 

Many UK employers are making the mistake of assuming that onsite work maximises productivity. Yet the data shows that – in sectors like finance, tech, and professional services, where flexible working models are logically sustainable – hybrid work arrangements are proven to provide the best support for psychological health and foster the highest levels of innovation.

By allowing employees and organisations to balance flexibility with collaboration, hybrid work environments create conditions where employees thrive – leading to improved business outcomes, including higher employee satisfaction, retention, advocacy, and customer satisfaction.  

Additionally, employees in hybrid work settings are significantly less likely to be seeking new job opportunities this year, reinforcing its benefits for long-term workforce stability. 

The survey also uncovered a direct correlation between strong leadership skills and greater flexibility in work arrangements. This raises an important question: Is the push for full-time onsite work in fact a symptom of inadequate investment in leadership and management development? 

Expecting employees to be flexible only when it benefits the business – such as during a global pandemic – is a recipe for higher attrition rates. While fully remote or fully onsite work may suit specific industries or individuals, for sectors where hybrid work is a viable option, the data is clear: Hybrid is the optimal solution for both businesses and employees. 

The key to success lies in equipping managers and leaders with the right tools to effectively lead a hybrid workforce. Without strong leadership and trust in management, companies risk losing their best talent in an increasingly competitive job market. 

About the European Workforce Study  

The European Workforce Study 2025 by Great Place To Work is a comprehensive analysis of workplace culture and leadership across Europe. Based on responses from 24,938 professionals across 19 countries, it is one of the largest pan-European surveys on work culture and leadership. Participants answered 80 questions covering key topics such as workplace culture, leadership, and emerging challenges like ESG, AI, and hybrid work. The report highlights how working conditions and employee satisfaction drive productivity, innovation, and long-term competitiveness while addressing current workplace challenges.

To see the full report, please visit: /resources/european-workforce-study

About Great Place To Work® 

Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture. Our mission is to help every place become a great place to work for all. Since 1992, our ÐÓ°Éâ„¢, Best Workplacesâ„¢ Lists, and global benchmarks have become the industry standard, built on data from more than 100 million employees in 150 countries around the world. For more information, visit sign up for the newsletter to learn more.

Press Contact: recognition@greatplacetowork.co.uk