Young Londoners are spearheading the return to office work in Britain, while older workers’ preference for home working is contributing to the UK’s lag behind international competitors, according to a new survey by Centre for Cities, a think tank.
The survey, which examined work habits in London, Paris, New York, Sydney, Singapore, and Toronto, found that London had the second-lowest rate of office attendance, trailing behind Paris, which had the highest, and ahead of Toronto, which had the lowest.
Gen Z workers in London, aged 18 to 24, are clocking in at the office 3.1 days per week, compared to just 2.5 days for those aged 35 to 44. Attendance slightly improves for those aged 55 and over, who average 2.7 days.
The data suggests that younger workers are more inclined to return to the office, with 43% indicating they work best there, compared to only 25% who prefer working from home. This trend may be linked to younger workers facing space and privacy constraints at home.
Andrew Carter, Chief Executive of Centre for Cities, challenged common perceptions, stating: “The standard narrative is young workers are shirkers, but actually they are back in the office, while it’s the middle or more experienced workers who are less present.”
Despite 95% of surveyed workers acknowledging the benefits of office presence, including improved collaboration and relationship building, overall office attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels across all cities studied.
Meanwhile, the UK government is advocating for more flexible working rights, including proposals for a four-day working week. However, just 29% of workers aged 34 to 44 and those over 55 feel they are most productive in the office.
Carter highlighted the evolving nature of home working: “The appeal of working at the kitchen table among others differs significantly from the luxury of a garden office or a purpose-built shed, which is more common among older workers.”
Carter also emphasised the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interaction, especially for younger employees. “Access to the diverse activities and experiences found in city centre offices is crucial for their success and that of the businesses they work for,” he noted.
Office attendance mandates have tightened, with only 7% of workers now having no requirement to be in the office at least once a week, down from 25% just over a year ago. The trend towards more in-office mandates could continue, as only 9% of workers say they would consider leaving their job if employers increased office attendance requirements.
Centre for Cities has suggested that employers could entice reluctant workers back by subsidising commute costs, a strategy reportedly adopted by some Parisian firms. Additionally, the government could revive Transport for London’s off-peak Friday fare trial to support this effort.
“The question is, can the government, the Mayor of London, and firms collaborate?” Carter pondered. “Stimulating more face-to-face interaction could benefit the national economy. London boasts significant assets—world-class public transport, deep labour markets, and numerous cutting-edge firms. Encouraging more office attendance, in line with other global cities, will help London maintain its vital national and international roles moving forward.”