Five Years After Lockdown Younger Generations Lead Return-to-Office Trend

London, 7 April 2025 – Five years on from the initial COVID-19 lockdowns which sent millions of workers home, the latest data from JLL reveals a surprising shift in workplace dynamics: younger generations are now leading the return to the office, challenging the prevailing narrative of older workers being more office-centric. This generational shift highlights the evolving nature of work. Companies must adapt their workplace strategies to attract and retain talent, particularly given the challenges of enforcing return-to-office mandates also identified in the data.

Generation Z embrace the office

The JLL research, based on surveys of over 12,000 employees across various industries and 44 countries, found that Generation Z are more likely to be in the office than their older counterparts. Younger workers (up to 24 years old) are in the office on average 3 days a week, tracking higher than all other age groups and the UK national average (2 office days a week).

"Covid-19 lockdowns shaped a whole generation of younger workers who spent their later education and early working lives without the cultural, social and professional benefits that being with other people can bring”, says Sue Asprey Price, EMEA CEO & Global Head of Portfolio Services, Work Dynamics, at JLL, “We're now seeing a big reaction from that generation, with being in the office key to their experience of happy and fulfilling work."

Despite Gen Z’s embrace of the office, the study also revealed widening generational differences in workforce attitudes. This is creating a huge challenge for employers seeking to create a working environment and culture that delivers for older generations who may bring more experience and seniority.

The findings highlight age-related differences in office experiences. While the oldest group (55+) adapted best overall, they are more sensitive to physical conditions like temperature, noise, and air quality, particularly its impact on focused work. The middle group (35-54) report the lowest satisfaction, citing similar environmental concerns, along with desires for improved technology, flexibility, and food options. However, despite being in the office the most, younger employees (up to 34) reported the lowest workplace wellbeing, ranking it as one of the lowest performing factors; this group prioritised work-life balance, flexibility, and healthy food options demonstrating the higher expectations they have of their employers when it comes to wellbeing.  

“Over the past five years since Covid a significant generational divide has emerged in our attitudes to work and the needs of the workforce, resulting in greater consideration and strategies for employers who need to create an environment that works for everyone, attracting younger talent while also retaining experienced workers,” says Asprey Price.

The global picture

The study also highlights significant geographical variations in return-to-office trends. While countries in the Middle East average between three and a half to four days a week in the office, the UK, along with Canada, sees a significantly lower average of approximately 2 days. The US similarly shows a preference for hybrid working with an average of just over 2 days in the office. These differences suggest a potentially more permanent reset in employee expectations and behaviours post-pandemic, particularly in Europe.

Mandates vs reality

Despite some companies implementing return-to-office mandates, JLL’s research also shows enforcement remains a challenge when it comes to getting people back, with most companies looking alternative methods. The majority of organizations rely on managerial discretion rather than formal policies with significant consequences for non-compliance.

Asprey Price continued, “Over the past few years, we had achieved a reasonable equilibrium in the workplace – a balance between employer expectations and employee flexibility. However, the recent emphasis on stricter return-to-office policies means this balance is now being re-examined by many employers.”

"These findings underscore the need for companies to invest strategically in creating workplaces that truly meet the needs of today's workforce," adds Asprey Price. "This means prioritizing amenities like quality food options, designing spaces that support both collaboration and focused work, and embracing technology that enhances productivity and flexibility."