Amazon has announced it will end its hybrid work policy, requiring employees to return to the office five days a week starting in January. The decision was communicated in a memo from CEO Andy Jassy, who emphasized that returning to pre-pandemic office routines would enhance collaboration and connection among staff.
Jassy, a well-known critic of remote work, stated that the move aims to improve the company’s innovation and teamwork. Under the previous hybrid model, Amazon allowed employees to work from home up to two days a week. This shift back to full-time office work reflects Jassy’s concerns about remote work diluting Amazon’s corporate culture and increasing bureaucracy.
The change has sparked significant internal tension. Last year, employees at Amazon’s Seattle headquarters protested against the tightening of remote work policies. The dispute intensified when the company fired the protest organizer, leading to accusations of unfair retaliation. This matter has been escalated to labor officials.
In his memo, Jassy expressed concerns about the company’s shift away from its start-up mentality and the growth of bureaucratic layers. To address these issues, he announced the creation of a “bureaucracy mailbox” for staff to report unnecessary rules. Additionally, the company plans to reorganize management structures to reduce layers and increase oversight, which could result in job cuts.
Alongside the return to office mandate, Amazon will end hot-desking in the US but continue this practice in most European locations. Employees will still be permitted to work from home in exceptional circumstances, such as family emergencies, though Jassy emphasized that regular office attendance is expected unless an exemption is granted.
Amazon’s stance on remote work contrasts sharply with the UK government’s approach. The UK is set to introduce new employment rights legislation next month, which aims to make flexible working a default right. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has highlighted the economic benefits of remote work and the importance of moving away from a culture of presenteeism.
Graeme, a worker from Northumberland who primarily works from home, notes the increased productivity he experiences outside the office. He acknowledges the value of office social interactions but believes that remote work significantly enhances efficiency.
As Amazon shifts back to a full-time office model, the debate over remote work continues, with differing perspectives on its impact on productivity and corporate culture.
