Flex is best, according to survey of business leaders

More than half of office occupiers now use some form of flexible office space, according to a survey unveiled by flexible workspace provider Orega. The survey of 500 business leaders found 55% of respondents are now using flex space in some form, while 52% of those not currently using it said they would consider it in the future. This contrasts with 21% who said a move to flex was unlikely. Additionally, the survey found that flex is most popular as an option for businesses in London and the North West, with financial and professional services as well at IT being the sectors most likely to use it. As well as business leaders, the survey also had responses from 2,000 UK office workers whose top three office priorities were found to be the ability to develop relationships with colleagues, fresh, clean air and suitable and controllable temperature. A majority also said sustainability was important. The survey found 67% of employees have embraced some form of hybrid working, with most coming into the office three or four days per week. Some 58% of employers surveyed were found to accept this, with 31% wanting employees in five days per week. Orega chief executive Alan Pepper said: “Our survey has revealed that the massive change our office environment experienced during the pandemic has continued to impact the requirements of businesses today. “Businesses do not want to be tied into long inflexible leases but want to be in quality space in prime locations where they can attract and retain the best staff, preferably with some flexibility, allowing expansion or contraction as needed.” Image © Jim Stephenson