ESG: the early movers

ESG has recently shot - quite rightly - to the top of the flex agenda. Most providers I talk to are formulating their plans, but it looks to me like the early movers are x+why, Fora and Work.Life. What are they doing, and what can you learn from them?

They all have clear plans which cover:

✅ Mission & Values

✅ Measurable targets (e.g. carbon emissions)

✅ Actions & behaviours from their employees to achieve the Mission

✅ Use of certifications such as BREEAM and B Corp

For now, this gives them a first-mover advantage. However, ultimately, I believe that ESG will be a hygiene factor, meaning that occupiers will expect it to be in place to even consider a flex provider.

Evidence shows that a robust ESG strategy can boost rents and valuations, so it makes sound commercial sense - as well as being the right thing to do.

What do you think will be the key trends to look out for? Like me, do you think that partnering with a flex provider gives landlords a quick way into ESG? Do you think this will be a must-have for providers in our industry?

I'd love to hear your views.