Two-thirds of C-suite executives are cutting costs and adopting hybrid work models to navigate economic uncertainty
87% CEOs and CFOs are concerned about the business impact of current macroeconomic instability and 86% are taking proactive measures to protect their companies amidst a challenging backdrop
- Four in five (83%) say hybrid working is playing a crucial role in their cost saving strategies
- Over three quarters (77%) say hybrid working has helped to significantly reduce overheads and operational expenses
- More than two thirds (67%) are scaling back, or planning to reduce, operating costs due to rising tariffs
- Despite a volatile climate, executives are also focusing on productivity, employee wellbeing and long-term talent retention
The latest research from International Workplace Group reveals that nine out of 10 CEOs and CFOs are concerned about the business impact of macroeconomic instability. As a result, they are turning to hybrid working, empowering their people to work from a combination of locations as a strategy to safeguard their businesses, reduce costs, and enhance operational resilience.
A new survey of CEOs and CFOs, conducted by IWG, the world’s largest provider of flexible workspace solutions, reveals that 86% are implementing proactive financial measures to protect their companies.
The findings highlight a clear trend toward adopting more flexible work arrangements, as four in five (83%) say hybrid work plays a crucial role in their cost-saving strategies, helping to mitigate the current economic turbulence.
Executives say this model has improved operational resilience, enabling them to significantly reduce overhead costs, such as office space, utilities, and expenses (77%), freeing up resources for reinvestment in other areas of the business or creating a buffer against unpredictable costs and future market fluctuations. 74% of CEOs and CFOs also say the model has enabled them to explore new business locations, offering greater flexibility and potential for growth and 83% report a noticeable boost in employee productivity. The multiple benefits mean 79% are exploring additional flexible workspaces to help manage economic uncertainty.
While more than two thirds (67%) are scaling back or planning to reduce operating costs amid economic instability, they are not losing sight of one of their most important assets, their people. Many CEOs say productivity (37%), employee wellbeing (23%) and strengthening long-term talent retention (17%) are essential during challenging economic times.
As part of this focus on talent, 88% of business leaders say hybrid working boosts employee satisfaction, making it a strategic focus for future recruitment.
Mark Dixon, CEO and Founder of International Workplace Group, said: “In times of economic volatility, CEOs are carefully evaluating how to navigate uncertainty while driving efficiency and growth for their business. They recognise that flexibility is not only crucial when it comes to safeguarding their operations, but also enhancing the productivity of their teams.
“By empowering their teams to work closer to home in local workspaces and offices, companies operating in the hybrid model are able to significantly reduce their costs and improve the work-life balance of their people.”
Notes to editors
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of CEOs and CFOs (50/50 split) working at companies that operate a flexible working model . The data was collected between 30.04.2025 – 06.05.2025. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.
For more information, visit International Workplace Group
- END -
About International Workplace Group PLC
International Workplace Group is the global leader in hybrid work solutions and workspace brands. We create personal, financial, and strategic value for businesses of every size. From some of the most exciting companies and well-known organizations on the planet, to individuals and the next generation of industry leaders. All of them harness the power of International Workplace Group’s hybrid working platform to increase their productivity, efficiency, agility, and market proximity.
International Workplace Group’s unrivalled network coverage includes approximately 4,000 locations across more than 120 countries and 83% of Fortune 500 companies are amongst our growing customer base.
Through our brands including Regus, Spaces, HQ and Signature, we help millions of people and their businesses to work more productively. We do so by providing the world’s leading hybrid work platform with professional, inspiring and collaborative workspaces and digital services all available via the International Workplace Group’s app.
For more information
Visit www.iwgplc.com and for more information on partnering with International Workplace Group, see: https://www.iwgplc.com/develop-a-location
