UK Workplace Trends 2023 Summary

Over the past year we have summarised current articles on UK workplace trends each month, picking out the developments which have had the most effect on the world of work and office space and find out a bit more about the stories behind the headlines. So, today we’re going to pull out the strongest themes and remind you of some must-read articles

Gen Z working style is starting to have an effect

The subject which generated the most articles and interest over the past year has to be Gen working styles. They are leading the charge back to the office, spending an average of 3.35 days per week in the office, according to a recent report from FORA in November, shared in an article by Work Design magazine They are also starting to define workspace design, with their demands for more workplace amenities and create their own collaborative, informal workplace culture.

The negative effects of remote working

After three years of home, remote and hybrid working, more studies are coming to the conclusion that the isolation associated with working alone is having negative effects on our mental wellbeing.

An article in Allwork.space in February shared the findings of a study by the Integrated Benefits Institute (IBI) which revealed that the study found that employees who work remotely full time (40%) and hybrid (38%) were more likely to experience depression and anxiety symptoms than those working in an office location (35%). Additionally, the percentage of individuals on mental health prescription drugs grew from 20% to 22%.

The future of the office is flexible

The office solution which has gained most ground in 2023 is undoubtedly flexible workspace, as larger companies come out of long-term traditional office leases and look for shorter term options which will allow them to flex their space and location more easily.

In July, Property Reporter interviewed Will Tattersall, Head of Sales at Canvas Offices, to get his take on the future of flexible workspace.  In the article, he revealed that the flexible workspace model appeals to both growing businesses and more established companies looking to downsize space due to hybrid working. Often offering better amenities and service than leased space, employers trying to break the WFH model are also finding it attractive.

The S in ESG rose in importance

This was the year when where a company works became part of its social ethos, so workspaces that give back to their communities became more attractive and coworking spaces are leading in this area.

In May, at the Flexible Workspace Association Conference, in London, a panel of experts discussed how coworking spaces can positively effect their local economies, from both within their space and in their surroundings.  Coworking spaces are home to many small local businesses (and employers), providing affordable space and support; they offer event spaces for local interest groups and they drive footfall into the high street by encouraging home workers into their space. Read the summary article on the panel here.

UK workplace trends  2023 summary

Some pretty clear trends, we think you’ll agree! Whether they help you shape you company’s workspace strategy, design or people work style policies, there is plenty of food for thought.

If you are looking for a new London office for your team in 2024, LentaSpace have 14 flexible workspace locations across London, offering a variety of office sizes from 1 to 60 on flexible terms, meeting rooms and virtual office services.  Contact our team on 0207 953 8080 or complete the contact form  to find out more.