Businesses like Crate Brewery and the British Society for Immunology are taking part, and we’re eager to see what they uncover. These trials offer fascinating insights into whether shorter working weeks can really deliver long-term boosts in productivity and employee happiness.

If the results keep trending positively, it could bolster Labour’s ongoing support for flexible working policies aligning with the consultations around the Employment Rights Bill.

But not everyone’s on board. Amazon’s CEO, Andy Jassy, recently announced that the company is phasing out hybrid work for corporate employees. Unsurprisingly, the move has sparked backlash from staff concerned about work-life balance. It’s a bold step—and not necessarily a popular one—that highlights the growing divide between companies leaning into flexibility and those taking a more traditional approach.

The idea of a four-day workweek has already proven successful for many UK businesses. Companies like Atom Bank and CMG Technologies have reported big wins, from better productivity to happier, more loyal employees. Even a UK pilot in 2022 showed promising results: 65% fewer sick days and 71% less burnout among workers.

That said, it’s not without challenges. Some businesses, like Asda, found that condensing hours didn’t work well for their teams. The takeaway? There’s no magic formula—it’s all about planning carefully, listening to your employees, and figuring out what’s best for your business.

Looking Ahead

Flexibility is becoming a key focus for many businesses, and with good reason—it’s not just about productivity; it’s also about retaining talent in a competitive market. While the four-day week continues to gain momentum, companies sticking with traditional approaches may find it harder to keep up.

As we kick start 2025, businesses will face big decisions about how to adapt to evolving expectations. One thing is clear: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But by staying flexible, listening to your team, and being open to change, businesses can set themselves—and their people—up for long-term success.

Ready to Make the Leap?

If your business is considering a shorter workweek or other flexible options, we’re here to help. At Clear Bridge HR, we provide practical advice to help leaders navigate these changes—from adjusting policies and organising workloads to keeping employees engaged during transitions.

For those exploring a four-day week, we can guide you through creating a clear plan, starting meaningful conversations with your team, and setting up regular feedback sessions to make sure the change works for everyone.