Two hundred UK companies sign up for permanent four-day working week
GuardianJan 28
200 UK Firms Switch to Four-Day Week
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Above: An exterior view of shops within the Royal Exchange at Bank on Jan. 20, 2025 in London. Image copyright: John Keeble/Contributor/Getty Images via Getty Images News
The Facts
Two hundred UK companies have permanently implemented a four-day working week without reducing employee pay, collectively affecting more than 5K workers across various sectors — including marketing, charities, and technology firms.
London-based companies represent the largest geographical concentration with 59 firms, followed by 27 in South East England, 25 in Scotland, 24 in South West England, and 15 in North West England, demonstrating a nationwide shift in working patterns.
The initiative has gained particular traction in specific sectors, with 30 marketing and advertising firms, 29 organizations in charity and social care, 24 technology companies, and 22 business consulting firms permanently offering four-day weeks to their staff.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The traditional five-day workweek is an outdated concept that no longer serves modern society's needs. The four-day week provides 50% more free time, enabling happier and more fulfilling lives. It also makes it easier to maintain productivity and pay and makes it easier to attract and retain talent.
Pro-establishment narrative
Large-scale adoption of a four-day week will harm UK business competitiveness and make doing business more expensive in the UK, potentially harming economic growth. Major companies maintain strict five-day office attendance requirements and view traditional working patterns as essential for business operations.
