Introducing the Reluctant Returner

A major new study by Unispace reveals 64% of employees across Europe are reluctant to return to the office post-Covid.

Find out more and download the full report in your preferred language below.

With little research conducted to date, Unispace embarked on a robust study combining the results of an in-depth survey of 3,000 office workers, 2,750 employers in leadership roles at organisations with 50+ employees, and interviews with global senior leaders in real estate, HR and Operations across Europe, to understand the true motivations behind why employees are reluctant to return to the office. Key countries of polling included the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and Switzerland.

Our findings uncovered a wealth of insights to enable employers to tackle this latest challenge – or opportunity – they’re facing. The results showed:

• 69% of 18 to 34-year-olds would like to return to the workplace full-time – the highest of any age group

• 80% would be happier to return if employers funded travel

• 84% of office returns are being mandated by employers

• 95% of employees indicated a desire to change their physical office space

Additional insights include preferences around work-life balance, salary expectations, bonuses and promotions, commuting, mental and physical wellbeing, lockdown habits, familial responsibilities and most importantly: how employees truly feel about their workspace. Employers must understand new employee motivations around workplace to attract, retain and engage top talent.

Find out more about the research below and get your free copy of the report.