Most businesses in the East of England believe hybrid working has boosted productivity and wellbeing but many are keen for their people to spend more time in the office. A business outlook tracker survey of mid-sized companies across the region from Grant Thornton UK found that 90 per cent of firms had adopted hybrid working but most (74 per cent) wanted to see their staff in the office more. Most firms recognised that in-person interactions can help with specific activities that hybrid working was impacting their ability to provide enough support for younger employees and trainees. Charlotte Anderson, practice lead for Grant Thornton UK in Cambridge, Milton Keynes, and Chelmsford, said: “Across the East of England, we’re seeing businesses embrace hybrid working while still valuing crucial in-person connections. This flexible approach boosts wellbeing and productivity, yet many organisations recognise that activities like mentoring younger talent thrive with face-to-face interaction. Finding the right balance is essential for businesses.”