ONS data from June 2025, confirming that 28% of working adults in the UK are in hybrid roles

According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 28% of working adults in the UK had hybrid roles between January and March 2025. That is more than one in four employees splitting their time between home and the office; a number that is only expected to grow.

For business owners and operations managers, especially in regions like Devon where traditional office models still dominate, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.

Is your workplace equipped to support hybrid collaboration? Are your systems flexible enough to meet employee expectations heading into 2026?

To stay competitive and retain talent, businesses must rethink how and where work happens. From digital infrastructure to physical space, now is the time to future-proof your operations. Below, we share practical ways to help your business thrive in the era of hybrid work.

How Businesses Can Future-Proof for the New Hybrid Era

As hybrid work cements itself into the UK’s employment landscape, businesses that proactively adapt will gain a significant edge, both in talent retention and operational flexibility. Future-proofing your business starts with the right systems, tools, and culture to support employees wherever they work.

1. Upgrade Meeting Rooms for Hybrid Collaboration

Hybrid collaboration requires an upgrade in meeting room technology. In a recent survey it was noted that about 63% of companies invested in conferencing technology to ensure seamless collaboration for hybrid teams. A key element of hybrid work is having the right technology in place for smooth communication between office-based and remote workers.

Upgrading meeting rooms to include Microsoft Teams Rooms or similar solutions is a must. These smart meeting tools ensure that employees, whether in the office or dialing in remotely, have equal access to information and discussions. Tools like digital whiteboards, high-quality video conferencing cameras and seamless calendar integration can make a huge difference in collaboration efficiency.

If your office is still relying on patchy video calls and outdated conference tools, hybrid work becomes a headache. Businesses are investing in smart meeting room setups, like Microsoft Teams Rooms installed by Bridgehampton, which ensure a smooth and equal experience for all participants whether they are in the office or dialling in remotely.

2. Outsource IT Support for Smooth Hybrid Transitions

As businesses transition to hybrid work models, the need for reliable IT infrastructure becomes more critical. 76% of UK businesses are now looking to outsource some aspect of their IT services to manage the growing demands of remote work.

Outsourcing IT support allows businesses to access the expertise and resources needed to maintain reliable hybrid work environments without the burden of managing it all in-house. IT service providers can ensure secure networks, reliable communication tools, and compliance with data protection laws, all of which are essential for hybrid teams.

IT service providers can also offer ongoing support and troubleshooting, ensuring any issues are resolved quickly. Furthermore, outsourcing IT work reduces costs and reduces pressure on existing teams. 

3. Invest in Secure Cloud-Based Tools

With hybrid work, data security and access to files anytime and anywhere becomes a priority. 60% of organisations are running over half of their workloads in the cloud and scaling up their investment in cloud-based tools for secure remote work.

Cloud solutions enable remote workers to access files and collaborate in real-time, ensuring that business operations run smoothly no matter where team members are located. From secure cloud storage platforms to collaboration tools like Microsoft 365, these tools enhance efficiency and keep your data safe.

Investing in secure cloud-based tools is non-negotiable for businesses embracing hybrid work. Solutions like Microsoft OneDrive and Google Workspace can be used to store files securely and collaborate seamlessly across teams. Adopting these tools will ensure that both in-office and remote workers have access to the same resources, contributing to a cohesive workflow.

4. Rethinking Space with Local Coworking and Office Hubs

Another important aspect of supporting hybrid work is having the right physical workspace. A recent survey by WeWork, showed that nearly 60% of businesses prefer coworking spaces over traditional leases to incorporate flexible workspaces and coworking hubs.

For businesses that may still rely heavily on office spaces, it’s worth considering the addition of coworking spaces or local office hubs. These spaces allow employees to work from a shared office location closer to home, avoiding the long commute to a central office. It’s a win-win situation, as employees benefit from the flexibility and businesses can maintain a physical presence without the overhead costs of large office spaces.

Consider using coworking spaces or local office hubs for employees who need a dedicated space to work in, but don’t want the burden of a long commute. Local hubs like the Devon Work Hubs offer flexible office spaces designed to meet the needs of businesses supporting hybrid work models.

Preparing for 2026 and Beyond

The future of work is hybrid, and businesses need to stay ahead of the curve. With more employees looking for flexible work options, companies need to make flexible working arrangements to continue operations.

Adapting to this shift means continuously upgrading your technology, reassessing your work policies, and ensuring that employees have the right support and tools to thrive in a hybrid environment. It’s also about fostering a culture of flexibility, where employees feel supported and valued regardless of where they work.

In preparation for 2026, businesses should regularly assess their hybrid work policies, upgrade their technological infrastructure, and seek feedback from employees to ensure that they are meeting their needs. Businesses that embrace this change will not only stay competitive but will also position themselves as employers of choice for top talent.

For more business insights on adapting to hybrid work, visit The Devon Daily Business Section.

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