The world is changing. Working from home, 10% fitter, happier, more digitally aware and wanting strong experiences & value –led leadership.

As concerns rise of a new lockdown in January, so many are also becoming increasingly aware that models are shifting and changing; that work patterns may never return to how they once were and that city centres will need to reinvent themselves.

The major city centres have been challenged like never before. They will need to adapt and respond just as business will. But how will all the changes look? What are the forecasts for 2022?

· Working from home set to continue with 70% of employees expecting only to visit offices for a few days per week. Have we seen the start of the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday working week in offices? The facts suggest so.

· Experience has become more of importance than materialism. There has been a shift to where consumers will pay for a great experience. It is maybe natural after two stop-start years but is this also a shift which does state that service and experience become of premium value.

· Recent indicators suggest a desire for a return to conviction leadership with strong values which place communities and people at the fore. Trust will be a major factor and how leaders do rebuild their trust with their teams.

· Placing others first has become a growing mantra as the year has rolled on. It was very strong in 2020 and seemed to decline as the economy restarted but many feel that lessons have not been learnt and now want to see their companies make positive action in supporting talent and people via stronger inclusivity, better development programmes, internal promotions and communications.

· Digital innovation will see an era of strong advancement as it doubles in the role it plays across home and work.

· Increased levels of health and well-being through fitness and diet. It is said that the average person is 10% fitter and spending an extra 30 mins a day exercising.

· A growth, amongst younger generations of less alcohol-led drinking as more look for alternatives.

· New working patterns will see a reduction in anxiety and stress which will lead to higher productivity.

The above does suggest some major changes which will impact on the long-term.

If the above trends continue, experts estimate that:

· Life expectancy will increase on average by a further 3 years per person. In the UK, it stands at 81 years so could increase to 84 years.

· Offices will become meeting places for collaborations and social interaction

· However, service will improve and be far more personalised as digitalisation will free up people for greater service levels.

· We will see a return to conviction and value-led leadership which does once again place society on its agenda.

· Health will improve and obesity will be reduced

· Job satisfaction will improve and return back to a stronger level.

Are you ready for the changes to come?

For more information on the above trends please contact lauran.bush@epmagazine.co.uk