More than two-thirds (69 per cent) of Canadian employers operating with a hybrid work model say they’re confident their businesses will grow in 2025, despite economic uncertainty and the pressure of rising costs, according to a new survey by the International Workplace Group.
The survey, which polled more than 400 senior business leaders across Canada whose organizations offer hybrid work arrangements, found a similar percentage (65 per cent) said hybrid work is central to their cost management strategy. In addition, more than half (56 per cent) said they expect their workforce to grow this year, while 72 per cent said they’re implementing or planning cost-cutting measures in 2025.
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The survey also found 72 per cent of respondents reported improved workforce productivity, while 68 per cent said their hybrid policies have strengthened their ability to attract and retain talent. Two-thirds (65 per cent) also said they’d lose their best employees if they discontinued hybrid work.
More than half (54 per cent) of employers said flexible work arrangements have led to happier employees, while 44 per cent cited greater job satisfaction and 34 per cent noted better employee health.
Survey respondents also pointed to additional cost-saving strategies, including reviewing suppliers for more affordable alternatives (26 per cent), delaying new hires (22 per cent) and reducing planned recruitment (20 per cent).
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