WHSmith's flagship London headquarters is facing a severe occupancy crisis, with new figures revealing a staggering rejection of its return-to-office policy by staff. According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the retailer's Strand office is operating at just 11% of its pre-pandemic capacity.
The findings paint a damning picture of the future of traditional office spaces in the capital. While many companies have struggled with hybrid working models, WHSmith's situation appears particularly dire, with the vast majority of its London-based employees choosing to work elsewhere.
The Data Behind the Desertion
The ONS data, collected through the groundbreaking Business Insights and Conditions Survey, measures smartphone activity in specific postcodes to gauge workplace occupancy. WHSmith's SW1Y 4LP postcode, covering its head office between The Strand and Pall Mall, shows one of the most dramatic declines in central London.
This isn't an isolated case. The report highlights that across central London, average workplace occupancy remains below 40% of pre-pandemic levels. However, WHSmith's 11% figure places it among the worst-affected businesses in the city centre.
A Sign of Changing Times in UK Retail
The retail sector has been at the forefront of workplace transformation since the pandemic. WHSmith's situation reflects broader industry trends where head office functions have adapted more permanently to remote and hybrid models.
Industry analysts suggest that high street retailers facing challenging trading conditions may be more inclined to reduce their expensive London office footprints. The data from WHSmith's headquarters may signal a wider strategic shift rather than mere employee preference.
The Bigger Picture for London's Economy
The mass absence of workers from traditional office spaces has significant implications for London's economy. Surrounding businesses that relied on office workers—from sandwich shops to dry cleaners—continue to face reduced footfall and revenue.
Urban planners and economists are closely watching these occupancy trends, which could potentially lead to repurposing of commercial real estate and permanent changes to city centre ecosystems across the UK.
As the debate about the future of work continues, WHSmith's near-empty London headquarters serves as a powerful visual representation of how profoundly workplace culture has changed since 2020.
