John Lewis orders staff back to office three days a week

What: John Lewis Partnership requires commercial team members to work three days per week in office, stores, or with suppliers from July 2025.

Why it is important: having downsized headquarters from 220,000 to 108,000 sq ft., the decision demonstrates how major retailers are reimagining their workplace strategies post-pandemic, prioritising collaborative learning and development while efficiently managing their property portfolios.

John Lewis Partnership has announced a significant change to its workplace policy, requiring commercial team members, including those in buying and merchandising roles, to spend three days per week working from office locations, stores, or with suppliers starting July 2025. This directive aims to foster improved collaboration and create an environment conducive to learning and development, with particular emphasis on supporting new recruits. The move represents an evolution of the retailer's 2021 hybrid working model, which allowed head office staff to choose their work location based on job requirements. While maintaining flexible working as a key component of its employment offer, the company has strategically downsized its head office space, relocating from a 220,000 sq ft location in Victoria to a more efficient 108,000 sq ft site in Pimlico. The retailer confirms it will have sufficient desk capacity to accommodate staff during their required office days, ensuring a smooth transition to this new working arrangement. 

IADS Notes: John Lewis's June 2025 mandate for increased office presence aligns with its broader transformation strategy throughout 2024-2025. This workplace policy shift follows the successful streamlining of its staff committee structure earlier in June 2025 , demonstrating the company's focus on enhancing collaboration and decision-making efficiency. The move is supported by strong financial performance, with March 2025 reporting tripled profits and a £114 million investment in staff development . This organisational evolution builds upon the August 2024 restructuring of buying and merchandising teams , reflecting how the retailer is optimising its operations while maintaining its commitment to staff development and collaborative culture.