Majority of UK businesses to require more office attendance

New research from NCG reveals that nearly two-thirds of senior decision-makers in UK businesses plan to increase in-office attendance for their employees. This finding comes from an independent survey of 1,002 senior leaders commissioned by the digital infrastructure experts.

The survey indicated that 59% of respondents expect employees to be in the office more often than in the previous year. The importance of face-to-face interaction was underscored by 31% of decision-makers, who cited networking and event opportunities as the top priority when choosing a new workspace. Furthermore, 65% of those surveyed highlighted the crucial role of technology in their workspaces for effective networking and collaboration.

However, many businesses face challenges with their current office technology. Twenty-four percent of respondents rated their mobile or online platforms for booking meeting rooms and registering guests as poor. Additionally, 19% expressed dissatisfaction with the platforms used for communicating with other members or learning about events.

Thomas Proctor, CEO of NCG, said: “After years of remote working following the pandemic, many businesses are now insisting that their employees return to the office at least some of the time. What’s clear is that business leaders believe in-person interactions and collaboration are vital to their growth.

“The technology on offer in workspaces must, therefore, be of the highest standard, allowing businesses the freedom to connect without limitations. The fact that our research highlights that the technology laid out across an office building is of the highest importance to senior decision-makers shows investing in industry-leading solutions that are efficient and easy to use is essential.

“Landlords and operators must make installing the best technology a non-negotiable if they are to meet the demands businesses now have for their office space. By using the best-in-class technology solutions, they can help landlords and operators set themselves apart in an already saturated market.”