Almost two-thirds of London office workers would rather watch this summer’s major sporting events in the workplace than head to the pub, research from flexible office provider Office Space in Town (OSiT) reveals.
The survey, conducted across OSiT’s five central London workspaces, found that 60% of workers believe it is more convenient to watch events such as the FIFA World Cup and Wimbledon on big screens in the office after work than booking tables in bars and pubs.
Rising costs, overcrowding during major sporting fixtures and the convenience of avoiding additional travel were among the key reasons cited by respondents. Workers also pointed to the comfort of office environments, easier access to food and drink, and the availability of seating as factors influencing their preference.
The findings suggest the role of the office continues to evolve beyond traditional working practices, with employers increasingly creating social spaces designed to encourage collaboration, wellbeing and community.
SHARED EXPERIENCE
Sarah Singlehurst, Co-Founder of OSiT, says: “Sport has always had the power to bring people together, and what we’re seeing now is that the workplace is becoming an increasingly natural setting for that shared experience.
“Creating environments where teams can stay, relax and enjoy major shared experiences together is becoming an important part of workplace culture.”
At OSiT Monument, workers can watch sporting events from The Deck, the company’s rooftop café and bar overlooking the Thames, while its wider portfolio includes themed workplaces, gyms, lounges and outdoor spaces designed to support activity beyond the working day.
GROWING DEMAND
The company believes growing demand for workplace amenities is changing expectations around office design, with occupiers increasingly seeking spaces that blend work, social interaction and wellbeing.
OSiT is currently pursuing larger acquisitions across central London as it expands its Omni-Office concept.
Future developments could include additional lifestyle facilities such as rooftop padel courts, day nurseries, dental practices and an expanded version of its in-office bedroom concept, The Cabins.
The research comes as employers continue to explore new ways of encouraging office attendance and creating workplace environments that offer more than a desk and meeting room.
