A major shift is happening in the UK workplace, particularly among professionals in their early thirties. Recent research shows that flexible working is now a higher priority than salary for this key demographic.

At Abintra, we specialise in office occupancy monitoring, so we see first-hand how changing work habits influence office strategy. Businesses that want to attract and retain top talent must take note: the office of the future is adaptable, data-driven, and designed for flexibility.

Why flexibility matters more than pay

According to new research, workers in their early thirties—often balancing career progression with personal commitments—are choosing flexibility over financial incentives. This preference underscores a broader trend: employees now expect workplaces that support hybrid working patterns and allow them to optimise their productivity, whether at home or in the office.

Workers now expect workplaces that support hybrid working and allow them to optimise their productivity

For employers, this means that traditional office setups may no longer meet the needs of their workforce. Instead, organisations must rethink their spaces to accommodate dynamic working styles.

The role of office occupancy data

At Abintra, we help businesses understand exactly how their office spaces are being used. Our advanced workplace monitoring solutions provide real-time insights into occupancy levels, allowing organisations to:

• Optimise space usage – Reduce unnecessary office footprints and repurpose underutilised areas.
• Enhance employee experience – Design office spaces that align with actual working habits and preferences.
• Improve cost efficiency – Avoid spending on wasted space while ensuring that in-office environments remain effective and engaging.

Without data, businesses are left guessing about how their office is being used. With data, they can make informed decisions that align with employee expectations and organisational goals.

What should businesses do next?

For companies navigating this shift, the key is to embrace a data-led approach to office management. That means:

1. Assessing current office occupancy – Understanding when and how employees use office space can reveal trends in flexible working preferences.
2. Redesigning with flexibility in mind – Creating spaces that cater to hybrid work, including hot-desking, collaborative zones, and quiet areas for focus work.
3. Implementing smart workplace monitoring – Leveraging technology to track usage patterns and ensure offices remain fit for purpose in an ever-evolving work landscape.

Future-proofing the workplace

The demand for flexibility is not going away. Businesses that fail to adapt risk losing valuable employees to competitors that offer more accommodating work arrangements. By harnessing the power of workplace occupancy data, companies can design offices that truly support their people—maximising productivity, engagement, and retention.

At Abintra, we’re committed to helping businesses navigate this transition. If you’re looking to future-proof your workplace strategy with smart, data-driven solutions, get in touch with our team today.