This month Epassi want to help HR heroes and decision makers meet their New Year’s business resolutions by revealing the benefit trends that are set to make a difference in 2026.
Shout it from the rooftops – the one-size-fits-all approach to employee benefits is long gone!
The evolution of employee benefits continues to rapidly develop, and they’ve taken centre stage when it comes to creating a good employee proposition.
While initially considered a privilege, they now form a crucial part of the mix when it comes to attracting and retaining the best talent. In fact, according to our research, more than six in ten (62%) employees now say that a good benefits package is the most important thing they look for in employment, with that figure up from 47% last year*.
For employers, 2026 shouldn’t just be about future-proofing your benefits strategy, it’ should be about prioritising the need to fix a damaging disconnect that has been seen across different industries.
Even though benefits are clearly growing in importance to employees year-on-year, there is still a disconnect between what workers want, and what’s actually on offer to them.
Communication, and listening to the demands of your employees, is key for the months ahead.
Unlocking the current state of play
Employee benefits continue to be a vital component of a company’s proposition when it comes to recruitment. In fact, a good benefits package can be the difference between attracting, and retaining, best-in-class talent or narrowly missing out to a competitor.
Despite three-quarters (77%) of HR leaders saying their business has increased investment into health and wellbeing benefits, just a quarter (24%) of employees feel their wellbeing is being taken seriously at work.
Employers can’t afford to stand still!
Understanding complex employee needs, implementing the right support to meet those needs, and then delivering on this effectively is no small feat.
The task is becoming even harder due to the fact that employee needs are constantly changing; half (49%) of HR leaders say employee needs are becoming more diverse as different generations enter the workplace.
That’s why tailored solutions are so important.
Why 2026 is the year employers must do more for their people
January is here, and while most of us are setting personal resolutions—eat better, exercise more, finally learn how to use that air fryer—HR teams have their own list to tackle. And spoiler alert: it’s not about clearing your inbox or mastering Excel shortcuts.
For 2026, ‘We’ve always done it this way’ is out. Flexibility, wellbeing and personalisation are in.
Employers need to stand up and take action. After all, the workplace is ever-changing.
Employees expect more than a paycheck—they want support, flexibility, and benefits that actually make a difference. With wellbeing challenges, rising living costs, and diverse workforce needs, employers can’t afford to stick with outdated perks. Doing more this year means:
- Prioritising holistic wellbeing: Mental health, physical health, and financial wellbeing aren’t optional extras—they’re essential for productivity and retention.
- Personalisation is key: One-size-fits-all benefits don’t cut it anymore. Employees want choices that fit their lifestyle, whether that’s gym memberships, mindfulness apps, or childcare support.
- Building a culture of care: Benefits aren’t just a box to tick—they’re a statement about your company values. Show employees you’re invested in their happiness and success.
New Year’s resolutions typically last 17 days, but implementing better benefits can help a new feel-good factor last all year long.
While this month may be the peak time for ‘let’s do things better this year’ energy – giving your employees benefits that they actually want can have a positive impact on your company for years to come.
Join Epassi’s webinar
Employees are asking for more—flexibility, wellbeing, personalisation, and we want employers to make it their resolution to deliver.
Later this month, on Wednesday 28th January from 12pm BST, benefits guru Joy Waugh will be diving into the top employee benefit trends for 2026 and showing you how to make these resolutions stick. From wellbeing innovations to personalisation strategies, this is your chance for HR professionals to start ticking off their New Year’s benefit resolutions. You can find out more and Register here
*Research taken from Zest’s Employee Benefits Report 2025
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