Some of the world's largest companies are taking a harder line on office returns, with executives issuing ultimatums to employees as the post-summer period begins. Data from Kastle Systems shows average workplace occupancy across 41,000 US businesses stood at around 50% in July 2023, prompting firms to abandon flexible hybrid policies.
Brent Cassell, vice president at Gartner, said senior leaders are running out of patience after soft reopenings failed to bring staff back. 'Most strategies were characterised as soft reopenings: 'We want you back, your badges work, we won't check attendance'. But they realised after inviting them back and offering 'Free Bagel Tuesdays' that no one came.'
Zoom, the video conferencing company synonymous with remote work, will require employees within 50 miles of an office to attend at least twice a week from September. Meta has introduced an 'In-Person Time Policy' from 5 September, tracking card swipes and warning non-compliance could lead to termination. Amazon is sending disciplinary emails to workers not meeting a three-day-a-week minimum, with CEO Andy Jassy telling staff: 'It's probably not going to work out for you at Amazon.'
According to workplace tech firm Eptura, desk bookings among 2,200 businesses have risen 56% in the US and 46% in the UK since autumn 2022. Banking and finance saw a 68% year-over-year increase, while media and entertainment bookings spiked 123%. Sue Asprey Price of JLL noted a 'back-to-school mentality' as companies set September deadlines for structured in-person days.
Experts say bosses now have greater leverage due to layoffs, rising living costs and a cooling job market. Cassell added: 'Job switching behaviour has slowed, and power has shifted back to employers. Some may now feel that, for the first time in a long time, they're able to enforce mandates.'
