Four-day week replaces Summer Fridays for UK’s younger workforce

New research from Owl Labs indicates that the four-day work week is now being adopted by a significant proportion of UK companies, replacing the traditional seasonal benefit known as the "Summer Friday".

Shift to structural flexibility

The findings show that 48% of UK businesses are now formally offering a four-day working week. This represents a change from ad-hoc summer perks to a broader, permanent adjustment in working patterns that is affecting workplace culture throughout the country.

Owl Labs' survey, which questioned over 1,000 UK office workers, reveals that expectations for reduced working weeks are particularly prevalent among the younger workforce. A reported 91% of Generation Z and 87% of Millennials anticipate that the four-day working week will become standard practice in the near future. In comparison, only 28% of Generation X and 40% of Boomers currently have access to a four-day week.

Younger generations as drivers

Gen Z and Millennial workers are not only most optimistic about the four-day model becoming common but are also the most likely to be enjoying its benefits already, with 59% of Gen Z and 53% of Millennials stating they have access to the reduced schedule.

This generational divide is significant. Data shows that while interest exists among all age groups, it is the younger cohort who most strongly expect, and increasingly demand, this level of flexibility from their employers.

Work-life balance and productivity

The extended weekends do not appear to be detrimental to productivity. According to the survey, 76% of all UK employees believe the four-day week improves their work-life balance, and 67% say they accomplish more across fewer days. In addition to these benefits, 74% of respondents cited increased opportunity for personal development, and 72% reported greater job satisfaction.

Managing return-to-office mandates

The survey also highlighted the consequences for businesses that do not embrace flexible working arrangements. Among workers facing stricter in-office requirements, 79% are now considering leaving their current employment. This statistic underscores what the researchers describe as the "growing importance of genuine flexibility for wellbeing and retention."

These findings suggest that flexibility is now seen as essential, rather than a temporary or seasonal benefit, especially for attracting and retaining younger employees.

Perspectives from Owl Labs

The transition from "Summer Fridays" to the four-day week marks a fundamental change in how we think about flexibility. For younger generations, flexibility is a standard they expect, not just a seasonal perk. As UK workplaces adapt, embracing these new ways of working will be key to building happier, more productive teams all year round," commented Frank Weishaupt, CEO of Owl Labs.

Changing workplace norms

"Summer Fridays" previously allowed staff to finish early at the end of the week during warmer months. The research indicates, however, that workplace aspirations have shifted away from short-term rewards towards consistent and genuine flexibility throughout the year.

The survey shows that for younger employees, especially Gen Z and Millennials, the expectation is for an inherent flexibility in scheduling, not just the occasional perk. With nearly half of UK companies already providing a four-day work week, it appears this is fast becoming established practice rather than an outlying option.

The survey was conducted in April 2025 and included 4,012 full-time office workers from the UK, US, Germany, and France, with 1,005 respondents based in the UK.