A new CBRE survey reveals that over 60% of companies in the region reported that their office attendance had reached a steady state, reflecting a widespread acceptance of flexible and hybrid working models as the future of work. Notably, 32% of firms expect office usage to increase, while only 4% anticipate a decrease.

The survey highlights that 43% of Asia Pacific companies have achieved a peak utilisation rate of 80% or higher. This trend presents opportunities for companies to recalibrate their workplaces to align with evolving work styles and attract top talent.

Unassigned seating (hot desking and activity-based working) and collaborative spaces are emerging as affective ways to boost workplace efficiency. Companies are increasingly adopting flexible seating and higher desk sharing ratios to achieve this goal. Additionally, 49% of companies plan to expand their use of flexible spaces in the next three years, with interest in utilising on-demand event spaces.

Cost remains a critical factor influencing both lease renewals and relocations. Among respondents, 50% cited better lease terms and rents as well as cost savings as the primary motivation for relocating to new offices. Despite these financial concerns, 58% of the companies are committed to enhancing employee experience and 45% focused on boosting employee productivity. 

“Asia Pacific occupiers are seizing cost saving opportunities in tenant-favored markets to upgrade to higher quality buildings in better locations with minimal cost escalation,” said Luke Moffat, Head of Advisory & Transaction Services, Asia Pacific for CBRE. “Sustainability and wellness are another area of focus for occupiers. Therefore, the more proactive landlords are in offering green building and wellness certifications, green lease clauses, electric vehicle charging stations, and various energy-saving features, the more they can attract occupiers to their assets.”

The survey found that 70% of companies want employees back in the office at least three days a week, with half aiming for a five-day workweek. Interestingly, employees in Asia Pacific are showing slightly higher office attendance than requested as 73% of them reported working in the office at least three days a week, demonstrating a strong commitment to workplace presence.

The survey also highlights uneven office attendance throughout the week, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays seeing the highest attendance rates across the Asia Pacific, except in mainland China where attendance is the highest on Mondays. Fridays show the lowest attendance, suggesting that companies may need to implement initiatives to maintain vibrancy and engagement for those who choose to come in, potentially increasing turnout over time

“Companies should rethink how they measure and interpret office utilisation to accurately estimate current and future space needs,” said Ada Choi, Head of Research, Asia Pacific, for CBRE. “With hybrid work patterns leading to uneven attendance, it is essential to maintain a vibrant environment during off-peak times while accommodating maximum capacity without compromising the work experience.”

Download 2024 APAC Office Occupier Survey here.

For further information, please contact Luke Moffat, Head of Advisory & Transaction Services, CBRE Asia Pacific and Ada Choi, Head of Research, CBRE Asia Pacific as the details below.