Rethinking Remote Work

The pandemic had a profound global impact, with loss of life as its most significant consequence. Despite these challenges, most businesses needed to maintain operations. For organizations with knowledge-based, non-physical models, remote work (WFH) provided an immediate solution for continuing to deliver products and services. However, in 2025 and into 2026, there is a growing shift toward return-to-office (RTO) mandates.

Technology companies led the transition to remote work during the pandemic. Their flexible business models allowed rapid adaptation with minimal disruption.

In 2025 and into 2026, many of these organizations are reducing remote work, indicating that management values in-person collaboration for its perceived return on investment. Some companies require three days at the office per week, others four, and some have returned to a full onsite schedule where possible.

Major employers implementing return-to-office policies include Amazon, AT&T, Walmart, JPMorgan Chase, Dell, WPP, Google, Electronic Arts (EA), Uber, Ford Motor, Target, Toyota, 3M, HSBC, Starbucks, Samsung, and others.

Remote and hybrid environments make relationship-building and continuous learning more challenging, with collaboration requiring extra effort. Employers anticipate that in-person work will boost productivity with minimal attrition. Companies will continue to operate across the spectrum from fully remote to entirely onsite as they seek the optimal balance.

Elaxtra Advisors is an M&A and value-creation advisory firm that assists institutional investors, private equity-owned platforms, and strategic acquirers invest and create value in worldwide technology services companies. Please contact us to explore potential partnerships.