Last Updated:
London-based businesses are leading the trend, with 59 firms in the capital adopting the four-day workweek.
200 UK Firms Adopt Permanent Four-Day Workweek
In a groundbreaking shift to reimagine the workweek in the United Kingdom, over 200 companies have committed to a permanent four-day workweek for all employees, with no reduction in pay. Collectively, these companies employ more than 5,000 individuals, with the largest representation coming from sectors such as charities, marketing, and technology, according to a report by The Guardian, citing the 4 Day Week Foundation.
Proponents of the four-day workweek argue that the traditional five-day model is outdated. Joe Ryle, campaign director at the foundation, called the five-day work structure a relic of the past, stating, “The 9-5, five-day working week was invented 100 years ago and is no longer fit for purpose. We are long overdue an update.” He emphasized that the additional free time offered by a four-day week would allow people to live happier and more fulfilling lives.
Ryle further pointed out that a shorter workweek has proven beneficial for both employees and employers, with hundreds of British companies already demonstrating its success. The change was initially adopted by around 30 firms in marketing, advertising, and public relations, followed by 29 organizations in the charity, NGO, and social care sectors, and 24 in technology, IT, and software. More companies from business, consulting, and management sectors have since joined, with 200 companies now committing to the model, which supporters argue is a great way to attract and retain talent while boosting productivity.
London-based businesses are leading the trend, with 59 firms in the capital adopting the four-day workweek.
The widespread support for this shift reflects a growing divide in cultural attitudes toward work, particularly after the Covid-19 pandemic. Many workers, having enjoyed the flexibility of remote work, are now pushing back against companies that demand in-person attendance five days a week, such as JPMorgan Chase and Amazon. For instance, when Starling Bank’s CEO required staff to return to the office more frequently, a group of employees resigned in protest.
The four-day workweek has also gained backing from senior politicians in the Labour party, although the party has not yet officially endorsed the policy. A survey by Spark Market Research found that younger workers are particularly enthusiastic about the change, with 78% of 18-34-year-olds believing that a four-day workweek will become standard within five years. Moreover, 65% of this age group expressed a desire to avoid a return to full-time office work.
Lynsey Carolan, managing director at Spark, explained that younger workers are prioritizing mental health and well-being, making the four-day workweek a crucial factor in improving their overall quality of life. She noted, “This group also say that mental health and improving their overall well-being are their top priorities, so a four-day week is a really meaningful benefit and a key enabler of their overall quality of life.”
