Former Asda and M&S Chief Criticizes Remote Work as Harmful to Productivity

Lord Stuart Rose claims remote working has set back the UK economy by 20 years, drawing mixed reactions from experts and workers.

Lord Stuart Rose, former CEO of M&S and chairman of Asda, stated that remote work is creating a generation of workers who are 'not doing proper work.'
He argued that working from home has reduced productivity and personal development, and linked it to a decline in the UK's economic wellbeing over the past four years.
Rose's comments reflect his longstanding stance, as he previously pushed for Asda's head office staff to return to in-person work at least three days a week.
Experts and workers have countered Rose's claims, highlighting benefits of remote work such as improved wellbeing, flexibility for disabled workers, and reduced burnout.
The Labour government is introducing legislation to expand flexible working rights, while some companies, like Amazon and JP Morgan, are mandating a full return to offices.