Search Results for: financial

How AI is already changing the world of work

How AI is already changing the world of work

AI is already changing the world of work, but not everybody is reacting to it in the same way, writes Laura AndersonAI is rapidly transforming the world of work. That much is clear. Understanding how different generations are adapting to this shift is therefore crucial for any organisation looking to the future.  Our recent study focusing on the generational differences in attitudes towards some of today’s biggest topics sheds some light on what might be driving these trends. Perhaps the most important finding was that nearly two-thirds of Gen Z feel concerned about AI’s impact on their future (only Baby Boomers reported more concern) – even though over half are still using AI day to day. (more…)

Does your employee benefits package have a marketing problem?

Does your employee benefits package have a marketing problem?

Despite many businesses investing heavily in employee benefits, many of these perks fail to deliver their full potential. Here's what to do about itDespite many businesses investing heavily in employee benefits, many of these perks fail to deliver their full potential. According to the 2025 Drewberry Employee Benefits and Workplace Satisfaction Survey, just 12 percent of UK employees report being truly satisfied with their benefits package. This gap in satisfaction isn’t always about the benefits themselves, but is often a failure of communication. This latest research shows that while benefits may be in place, just 36 percent of employees fully understand what’s on offer. Even fewer regularly engage with these benefits. (more…)

More young workers take on second jobs to deal with cost of living

More young workers take on second jobs to deal with cost of living

New research suggests that a growing number of younger workers in the UK are turning to second jobs as they struggle to manage everyday living costs.New research suggests that a growing number of younger workers in the UK are turning to second jobs as they struggle to manage everyday living costs. According to a poll from Boostworks, more than half of Gen Z workers and over 70 percent of Millennials are exploring ways to supplement their income, with many already taking on additional work outside their primary employment. The findings, based on a survey of 5,600 working adults, highlight the scale of financial strain facing the workforce, particularly among younger generations. (more…)

Cities must embrace the radical retrofit of buildings to meet future challenges

Cities must embrace the radical retrofit of buildings to meet future challenges

The Radical Retrofit report by Economist Impact, supported by JLL, argues that making cities more sustainable and resilient will depend on retrofits that improve safety, health and accessibility, while also driving economic valueAs cities continue to grow, the pressure on infrastructure, resources and the environment is intensifying. A new global study warns that urban centres must move beyond new construction and reimagine the buildings they already have. Retrofitting – enhancing and upgrading existing structures -is emerging as a key strategy to cut emissions, improve energy performance and boost urban liveability. The Radical Retrofit report by Economist Impact, supported by JLL, argues that making cities more sustainable and resilient will depend on retrofits that improve safety, health and accessibility, while also driving economic value. Though still in its early stages, the movement is gaining traction across global cities such as Singapore, New York, Paris and Dubai. Yet the pace must accelerate dramatically from today’s retrofit rate of 1 percent per year to at least 3 percent to align with net-zero goals. (more…)

Office utilisation reaches equilibrium, and demands a rethink of workplace strategy

Office utilisation reaches equilibrium, and demands a rethink of workplace strategy

The British Council for Offices (BCO) has published a new report which claims that while office utilisation rates have stabilised, there has been a fundamental shift in how offices are usedThe British Council for Offices (BCO) has published a new report which claims that while office utilisation rates have stabilised, there has been a fundamental shift in how offices are used, with major implications for developers, investors and occupiers. The report, authored by Nigel Oseland of Workplace Unlimited, shows that the long-standing benchmark of 80 percent office utilisation is no longer fit for purpose. Post-pandemic data suggests a more realistic, but nevertheless conservative, figure of 66 percent equating to an effective density of 15 sq. m per occupant, up from the previous 12.5 sq. m. This recalibration reflects a maturing flexible working model that empowers organisations to right-size their space, reduce waste and enhance employee experience. With high-profile organisations in financial services and the public sector under the spotlight for space misalignment, the report offers timely, evidence-based guidance for the sector. (more…)

Half of school leavers think they are unprepared for work, poll claims

Half of school leavers think they are unprepared for work, poll claims

Two in five 18- to 24-year-olds have never completed any work experience and feel unprepared for work as a resultA new poll from the IPPR think tank claims that only 47 per cent of 18- to 24-year-olds felt ready for work when they left education, compared with 60 per cent of over-26s. Despite more schools claiming that they offer high-quality work experience, two in five 18- to 24-year-olds have never completed any work experience and feel unprepared for work as a result. By contrast, earlier generations – those in their late 20s, 30s, and 40s – are significantly more likely to have done so. The report argues that the number of young people missing out on these opportunities could have implications for social mobility, with 60 per cent of 18- to 24-year-olds agreeing that work experience opportunities usually rely on who you know, not what you know. (more…)

Occupiers seek broader value from workplace strategies

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 prioritiesA 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. (more…)

Business rates hike could cost London office occupiers £432 million more from 2026

Business rates hike could cost London office occupiers £432 million more from 2026

Office-based businesses across Central London could face a steep increase in business rates from April 2026, according to new research by property consultancy Colliers.Office-based businesses across Central London could face a steep increase in business rates from April 2026, according to new research by property consultancy Colliers. The analysis suggests that occupiers of prime office space may collectively see bills rise by £432 million, bringing total business rates liabilities to £5.23 billion—a 9 percent increase on current levels. Colliers examined 27 Central London areas, focusing on Grade A office spaces over 10,000 sq ft, to assess the expected financial impact of the 2026 Rating Revaluation. The forecast draws on changes in rental values between April 2021 and April 2024 and anticipates a higher business rates multiplier for properties with rateable values (RVs) above £500,000. (more…)

One in ten UK workers take on side jobs while working from home

One in ten UK workers take on side jobs while working from home

New research suggests that around one in ten full time employees working from home in the UK have taken on a side job,New research suggests that around one in ten full time employees working from home in the UK have taken on a side job, with a significant number managing their additional work during normal working hours for their main employer. The study, commissioned by the Global Payroll Alliance (GPA), surveyed over 2,400 UK workers who work from home at least some of the time. It found that 71 percent of full-time employees still work remotely to some degree, and around 20 percent now do so full-time. (more…)

How BPO enables business flexibility in rapidly changing global markets

How BPO enables business flexibility in rapidly changing global markets

What was once viewed as a cost-cutting tool, BPO has evolved into a strategic advantage, providing businesses with the flexibility they require to remain competitive and resilient during volatile periods.Global markets are changing at an unprecedented rate due to economic uncertainty, shifting consumer behavior, and technological breakthroughs. Businesses must be agile and able to adapt to market changes. This is where Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) comes in. What was once viewed as a cost-cutting tool has evolved into a strategic advantage, providing businesses with the flexibility they require to remain competitive and resilient during volatile periods. (more…)

Furniture Makers organising fifth conference for HR professionals

Furniture Makers organising fifth conference for HR professionals

The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry, is organising its fifth annual HR conference, Routes to a Stronger Workforce 2025. Sponsored by Blum UK, the event is taking place on Thursday 10 July 2025 (10:00am – 3:00pm) at Furniture Makers’ Hall, London, and is tailored for HR professionals working in the furniture and furnishing industry. The conference will be chaired by Emma Welch, group HR director at Ocee International, and will feature expert-led sessions on topics such as debt management, mental health, and apprenticeship recruitment. (more…)

Employer confidence falls to record low as UK employers face rising costs and uncertainty

Employer confidence falls to record low as UK employers face rising costs and uncertainty

The number of UK employers expecting to increase headcount in the next three months has fallen to a record low outside of the pandemicThe number of UK employers expecting to increase headcount in the next three months has fallen to a record low outside of the pandemic, as they grapple with rising employment costs and growing global uncertainties. This is according to the latest Labour Market Outlook report from the CIPD, which shows that the rate of employers expecting to increase headcount has fallen sharply among large private sector employers, and in retail in particular. In response, the CIPD is urging the government to closely consult with employers and business bodies to limit the potential impact the Employment Rights Bill could have on employer’s hiring plans as businesses face mounting external pressures. (more…)