A new report by London HQ, coupled with footfall data from Landsec has revealed that London workers returned to the office in droves during the build up to Christmas.

A survey by Censuswide of 2,000 workers in London found that more than half of those polled (54%) commuted in to the office at least 3 days a week or more, with a fifth (17%), going in 5 days a week.

Although the shift has been partly driven by employers with over half (52%) increasing the number of days required in the office, many reported that Christmas parties (50%), the City’s festive lights (44%) and Christmas present shopping (38%) were the key drivers for coming in to the office more frequently.

Amongst the reasons why people enjoyed working in London, a fifth (22%) attributed it to their job being rewarding, the wide range of things to do in the capital (21%), and its many free tourist attractions (18%).

Ruth Duston OBE, CEO and Founder of Primera Corporation, said: “This Christmas has seen many of London’s hybrid workers return to the office, playing a crucial role in supporting the city’s economy. Although it’s been a challenging year, it’s great to see London’s festive appeal bring everybody together in a way only London can.

“Whether it’s to view the Christmas lights, enjoy the many free activities and public spaces London has to offer, the last-minute shopping hunt for presents, or simply catching up with colleagues after work, businesses across a range of sectors have hugely benefited from the increase in footfall this month.”

Marc Myers, Retail Operations Director for Central London at Landsec, said: “The West End is a seven-day-a-week location, with tourists, shoppers and office workers contributing to footfall. With a great mix of retail, leisure and F&B, our places across Victoria, for example, are attracting people looking for convenience and new, one-of-a-kind brand experiences.

“Weekend trade at Nova, part of our wider Victoria estate, has risen 17% from pre-Covid levels, with Saturday’s trading at the same rate as mid-week peaks. F&B and leisure venues in the area are also performing ahead of pre-Covid levels with our Victoria workplaces fully let and bringing more buzz to the area.

“With holiday shopping in full swing and new attractions like Lane 7 bringing its unique bowling experience to London for the first time on Victoria Street, we expect this trend to continue.”