As we enter the final quarter of an extraordinary year, there is still a level of uncertainty about the long-term impact that the Covid-19 pandemic will have our economy, and indeed on the way we live and work.

A large majority of office workers have been home based since March 2020, leading to much debate around the future of the office.

Remote working is not a new concept for 2020. Over the past decade we have seen businesses edging towards greater flexibility for employees, largely enabled by technology and driven by the wellbeing agenda. The rising demand for co-working spaces, serviced offices and flexible floorplates are testament to that.

Covid-19 has accelerated that change in a way no one could have planned for. Overnight, office workers were home based and businesses operating almost entirely remotely, leaving occupiers to question whether they really need an office at all.

Now, nine months into the pandemic and remote working, it’s clear the answer is not a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’.

Whilst many businesses have operated successfully away from the office, the lack of face to face contact makes it difficult for employees to effectively collaborate or feel connected to the company.