Tariffs and geopolitical tensions, ceo's and cfo's hunting for resources also with smart working

Tariffs and geopolitical tensions could revive the role of smart working. Hybrid work is many things and among them can also be a source of resources due to the savings it allows. After all, many managers, even during the pandemic, had estimated a significant reduction in space requirements with hybrid working. In 2020 at the Rimini meeting, the then CEO of Leonardo, Alessandro Profumo, had spoken of a 30% reduction in space requirements. A reduction in space that has entailed many rearrangements of premises and also cuts in rents, management and energy costs. All resources that today, in this unstable macroeconomic situation, are considered attractive by managers.

A survey by International Workplace Group (IWG, which owns brands such as Regus, Copernico, Spaces and deals with flexible workspaces) of 1,000 CEOs and CFOs of large American and British multinationals reveals a very clear trend: 87% of managers are concerned about the impact of macroeconomic instability on their business and 86% are developing measures to protect their companies. In this situation, cost cutting can become a priority and hybrid working seems to be one of the most effective strategies. In fact, 83% of managers consider it crucial for cost reduction. In a context where 67% of companies are downsizing or planning to reduce operating costs due to rising rates, hybrid working offers a concrete solution.

On the one hand, hybrid work entails reorganisation, but on the other hand, it can also foster savings and help to find resources to invest. 77% of managers agree that hybrid work has helped to significantly reduce overheads, freeing up valuable resources for strategic investments and creating a buffer against market fluctuations. In a period of uncertainty, rapid adaptation to market changes can also be a guarantee for business continuity. Not surprisingly, 79% of companies are actively exploring additional flexible workspaces.

The adoption of hybrid working has brought not only savings, but also improved productivity, according to 83% of managers. In addition to their increased satisfaction, making it a crucial factor in attracting and retaining top talent. Finally, 74% of ceo's and cfo's say that hybrid working has opened up new opportunities for geographic expansion, expanding companies' growth potential.