In just a couple of weeks — on Wednesday 2nd July — we’re hosting a Make A Difference webinar exploring how employers can use flexible rentals to redefine the modern workplace. This conversation goes beyond cost-cutting — it’s also about meeting the growing demand for personalisation, autonomy, and adaptability in modern work environments.
That’s why new research from International Workplace Group (IWG) caught my attention. It reveals that 9 in 10 CEOs and CFOs (90%) are concerned about the impact of macroeconomic instability — and many are turning to hybrid working models as a strategy to boost resilience and reduce costs.
Hybrid working as a strategic response to uncertainty
The findings echo the trends we’re seeing in the lead-up to our webinar. According to IWG’s report, four in five executives (81%) say hybrid work is now a key part of their cost-saving strategies, helping buffer their organisations against today’s economic turbulence.
Thanks to the flexibility hybrid working offers, leaders report they’ve been able to significantly cut overheads — from office space to utilities. In fact, 77% say these savings have allowed them to reinvest in other areas or create a financial cushion for uncertain times.
Expanding horizons while boosting productivity
But hybrid working isn’t just about saving money. 74% of CEOs and CFOs say it has enabled them to explore new business locations, creating greater agility and growth potential.
And the people-focused benefits are hard to ignore:
- 82% report improved employee productivity
- 79% are exploring more flexible workspaces to strengthen resilience during economic uncertainty
People still come first
While 63% of leaders are reducing operating costs, they remain focused on their most important asset: their people.
When asked about top priorities during tough times, executives cited:
- Productivity (37%)
- Employee wellbeing (24%)
- Long-term talent retention (17%)
As part of this focus on talent, 88% of business leaders say hybrid working boosts employee satisfaction — making it a strategic priority for future recruitment and retention.
Not everyone has cracked the hybrid code
That said, hybrid working isn’t without its challenges. Not all employers are sold on the model, and many are still struggling to make it work for everyone. In fact, several members of our Make A Difference Leaders’ Club have cited what one described as “the hybrid disengage” as a top concern — highlighting the importance of getting the implementation right.
The CEO view: Flexibility fuels growth
Mark Dixon, CEO and Founder of IWG, puts it succinctly:
“In times of economic volatility, CEOs are carefully evaluating how to navigate uncertainty while driving efficiency and growth. They recognise that flexibility is not only crucial when it comes to safeguarding their operations, but also enhancing the productivity of their teams.
By empowering their teams to work closer to home in local workspaces and offices, companies operating in the hybrid model are able to significantly reduce their costs and improve the work-life balance of their people.”
Find out more
You can view International Workplace Group’s full report [here].
And don’t forget to register for our free Make A Difference webinar, sponsored by Fluid Furniture:
“Flex on demand: how flexible rentals are reshaping the future of work”
?️ Wednesday 2nd July, 10.00am – 11.00am
? [Register here].
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