The four-day workweek is gaining momentum globally as organizations seek innovative ways to enhance employee satisfaction and productivity. This trend is being driven by changing workforce expectations and the need for better work-life balance.
Global Trends
- United States:
- Approximately 30% of large companies are considering adopting a four-day workweek, according to a KPMG survey. Employee sentiment is strong, with 77% of workers believing it would positively impact their well-being. The rise of AI is also seen as a potential enabler for this shift, with 61% of CEOs encouraging the use of generative AI to ease workloads.
- United Kingdom:
- The four-day workweek is gaining traction in the UK, with a 2022 trial involving over 70 companies reporting positive outcomes. Participants experienced a 20% boost in productivity and significant improvements in employee well-being, with around 80% feeling less stressed. More than 90% of companies decided to continue the model post-trial. As interest grows, the UK is exploring this innovative approach to work, positioning itself alongside global movements in rethinking traditional work structures.
- Belgium:
- Belgium has become the first European country to legislate a four-day workweek, allowing employees to condense their hours without a reduction in pay.
- United Arab Emirates:
- Since July 2023, government employees in the UAE can opt for a four-day workweek, impacting nearly 90% of the workforce.
- Iceland:
- Following extensive trials, about 90% of workers in Iceland now enjoy reduced hours weekly, with many companies reporting improved productivity and employee satisfaction.
- Germany and Portugal:
- Both countries are conducting pilot projects to test the feasibility of a four-day workweek. Germany’s initiative began in February 2024 and involves 45 companies actively participating in the trial.
Conclusion
The four-day workweek is increasingly recognized as a viable approach to improving employee morale and efficiency. While challenges remain—especially in sectors like healthcare—the positive results from various trials suggest that this model could become more widely adopted across different industries in the near future.