economy
February 2, 2026
5 days in the office is the least popular way to work. Bosses are mandating it anyway
Home Depot and Stellantis are the latest major companies to mandate a five-day return-to-office schedule.
TL;DR
- Companies like Stellantis and Home Depot are mandating a five-day-a-week return to the office.
- This trend is creating tension between employers, who cite efficiency and culture benefits, and employees, who prefer hybrid work.
- Younger workers (Gen Z and millennials) are the least interested in full-time office attendance and most prefer hybrid models.
- A tightening job market may increase employee compliance with return-to-office mandates, despite unhappiness.
- There is a risk of employee burnout, disengagement, and brain drain if top performers leave for more flexible jobs.
- Some companies might be using return-to-office mandates as a way to encourage voluntary departures and cut costs.
- Return-to-office mandates disproportionately affect working parents, caregivers, and people with disabilities.
- Companies offering hybrid schedules may have an advantage in attracting top talent.
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