Workplace Wellness Facilities Get Top Priority

While it used to be only the bigger companies that offered a well-stocked pantry, recreation rooms and rest/chill areas, these days, even small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) want to offer such facilities, for the well-being and happiness of their employees.

According to the SME Workspace Preferences Study of 800 SMEs by flexible workspace provider JustCo and survey company Milieu Insight, when SMEs look for workspaces, their priorities include a well-stocked pantry, relaxation areas, and ergonomic office furnishings. Location is among the key considerations as it impacts the commuting time for their employees and, in this digital age, it is no surprise that strong technology infrastructure is also essential.

For employees, well-being starts with food and rest. The survey reveals that 47% of employees want their offices to have a well-stocked pantry, and 37% want nap rooms or relaxation areas. Ergonomic office furnishings are a top consideration in terms of preferred office design and aesthetics for 59% of employees surveyed. In addition to amenities, office location (80%) and strong technology infrastructure (55%) are important as well.

When asked about their ideal work environment, 74% of SME employees in the survey favour “welcoming”, “vibrant”, or “collaborative”, indicating a strong preference for workspaces that promote positive mental well-being. In contrast, “premium” or “traditional” office settings are the least important.

“A wealth of research supports the positive effects of such amenities and social interaction on employee well-being. As global awareness of mental health rises and lifestyle expectations shift, businesses and employees are placing greater emphasis on wellness and work-life balance,” says Juda Kanaprach, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Milieu Insight.

SMEs, while well-intentioned about the happiness of their employees, face real challenges when it comes to finding an ideal office space. High costs and limited budget flexibility are major hurdles, and there is a lack of affordable office spaces in their preferred location. The long-term commitment of rental leases (44%) can be tricky in the face of dynamic changes and economic uncertainties, and SME decision-makers (41%) find that workspaces lack the flexibility to adapt to changing needs.

“SMEs are rethinking what constitutes their ideal workspace. While cost and location remain important, decision-makers are increasingly seeking functional spaces that prioritise employee well-being beyond just productivity,” says JustCo Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer Kong Wan Long. “The changing work landscape and economic uncertainties further emphasise the need for flexibility to adapt. Workspace solutions that encompass functionality, wellness, and flexibility will be key for SMEs to thrive in the long run.”