Posted Jun 20, 2025
The 4-day work week: once a pipe dream, now a serious conversation in boardrooms across the UK.
After one of the world’s largest trials wrapped in the UK in 2023 — with over 60 companies taking part — the results were crystal clear: fewer hours didn’t mean less productivity. In fact, most businesses saw boosted morale, better retention, and no dip in output. So… what’s stopping more companies from making the switch?
Let’s explore the pros, cons, and what this means for recruitment in 2025 and beyond.
First, a Quick Recap on the UK 4-Day Week Trial
- Organised by 4 Day Week Global, Autonomy, and researchers from Cambridge & Oxford.
- Ran for 6 months with nearly 3,000 employees.
- Employees worked 100% of the pay for 80% of the time, with a promise to maintain 100% of their productivity.
Results?
- 92% of companies stuck with the 4-day model post-trial.
- Staff turnover dropped by 57%.
- Sick days decreased by 65%.
- And employee satisfaction? Through the roof.
The Pros of a 4-Day Week
Attracting Top Talent
In a competitive market, offering a 4-day week is like a magnet for talent. Candidates are actively seeking better work-life balance, and this benefit stands out more than another gym membership or free fruit.
Boosted Productivity
Despite working fewer hours, employees tend to focus more, cut the fluff from meetings, and streamline processes. It’s quality over quantity.
Improved Wellbeing & Retention
More rest = happier teams. Employers reported improved mental health, reduced burnout, and stronger team morale — all major retention boosters.
Positive Employer Branding
Imagine the LinkedIn traction when you announce you’re moving to a 4-day week. It’s not just a perk — it’s a statement about company values.
The Cons (or at Least, the Challenges)
Client-Facing Teams May Struggle
For roles that require 24/7 availability or tight SLAs, offering reduced hours can be tricky — unless you stagger teams or rework shift patterns.
It Requires a Culture Shift
You can’t just lop a day off the week and expect it to work. Success depends on clear expectations, better workflows, and trust.
Some Sectors Just Aren’t There Yet
Industries like healthcare, retail, or logistics may find a 4-day week harder to implement at scale — though creative models are emerging (like rotating rest days).
What It Means for Recruitment
Recruiters, take note — the 4-day week could be a serious differentiator:
- Job ads that mention a 4-day week get significantly higher engagement (and it’s not just clickbait).
- Candidates are increasingly prioritising flexibility over traditional perks.
- Even companies not offering it yet are being asked about it during interviews.
As one HR Director from a UK marketing agency put it: “We started as a pilot. Six months in, we’re never going back. We get more applications, our people are happier, and our clients haven’t noticed a thing — except better service.”
So… Is the UK Ready?
In short: yes — but not all at once.
Forward-thinking companies are already reaping the rewards. Others are watching closely, waiting for proof it’s sustainable long-term.
But one thing’s for sure: the conversation is here to stay. And in a tight talent market, the businesses bold enough to try it first may just come out on top.
Would you work a 4-day week if it meant the same pay and performance expectations?
Get in touch with us
NK
