Bosses believe WFH will come to an end – wishful thinking? Opinion Given the City of London is a major destination for commuters (especially those working in professional services) the new rhythm of hybrid working is perhaps more visible in the Square Mile than elsewhere. Generally speaking, Mondays seem a little thin while Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays feel busier than ever. Fridays remain somewhat subdued. On the [...]
IWG buoyed by workers returning to the office Business Hybrid workspace platform International Workplace Group (IWG) has reported an uptick in revenue boosted by strong growth in its managed and franchised properties. Revenue grew by two per cent in the three months to 30 September, 2024, on a year-on-year constant currency basis, the company told markets this morning. The firm grew revenue at its managed and [...]
Office Depot owner loses over £50m ahead of quitting UK thanks to working from home trend Retail OT Group, the owner of Office Depot and the Spicers wholesale brand, lost more than £50m in the year before it revealed plans to quit the UK. The Greater Manchester-headquartered group has posted a pre-tax loss of £52.5m for 2023, having also lost £15.8m in 2022. Newly-filed accounts with Companies House also reveal that turnover [...]
Plusnet price rises boost profit after John Lewis closure October 1, 2024 Profit has risen at Plusnet despite a slump in customer numbers following the closure of its mobile division and John Lewis axing its broadband platform. The Sheffield-headquartered broadband provider, which is owned by BT, suffered a 29 per cent reduction in its customer base following the closures. However, annual contractual price rises partially offset the [...]
Let’s be honest… the government is gaslighting us on working from home September 19, 2024 Given the public sector’s appalling productivity record , the government should get its own house in order before giving out working from home advice to private businesses, says Matthew Lesh There is an irony in government ministers telling private enterprises how to be more productive. This week, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds claimed that creating a [...]
All the best offices are embracing the Great Outdoors (so leave HSBC alone) August 8, 2024 From smoking den to outdoor zen – offices are embracing green spaces, says Lucy Arthur
The Debate: Have flexible working laws gone too far? May 1, 2024 Will new laws allowing workers to "request" flexible hours culminate in the irreparable breakdown of society?