Occupiers seek broader value from workplace strategies

A new report from Cushman & Wakefield, in partnership with CoreNet Global, claims to highlight how corporate occupiers are adjusting their real estate and workplace strategies in response to ongoing cost pressures and shifting organisational priorities. The What Occupiers Want 2025 survey is based on responses from over 230 senior real estate leaders across global markets. While cost remains the primary driver of decision-making, the findings suggest that occupiers are placing increased emphasis on performance, employee experience and long-term value.

The role of corporate real estate is evolving, according to the report. Among companies that changed reporting structures in the past two years, nearly 30 percent now have their real estate teams reporting to HR. This reflects a broader view of the workplace as a contributor to culture and engagement, although most organisations still rely on financial metrics to assess impact.

Flexible location strategies have become a common feature of talent planning. Sixty-one percent of respondents have introduced more geographically flexible hiring approaches. The Americas region is dominated by hybrid national-level strategies, while APAC is seeing growth in remote-first roles. Demand for technology skills remains high across sectors such as finance, professional services and energy.

After several years of downsizing, footprint reduction appears to be slowing. Two-thirds of firms surveyed had already reduced their portfolios, but only one-third plan further cuts. One in eight organisations expects to expand. At the same time, office occupancy rates are stabilising, with most reporting usage between 51 and 60 percent. Return-to-office policies are also becoming more clearly defined.

The report notes a shift in occupier expectations of landlords. Eighty-five percent of respondents now seek enhanced support, including amenities, wellness services and social programming. Almost half are prepared to pay a premium for these features.

Environmental, social and governance priorities have seen a decline in global rankings but remain more prominent in regions such as EMEA and APAC, particularly among larger firms.

According to the report, corporate real estate teams are now expected to deliver outcomes that support both financial goals and workforce needs. As organisations continue to adjust their workplace strategies, the definition of value is broadening beyond cost alone, the report concludes.