A recent survey indicates that the prevalence of remote work options within German businesses is expected to remain stable, with plans for expansion outweighing those for reduction. Conducted by the Leibniz Center for European Economic Research (ZEW), the study reveals a sustained commitment to flexible working arrangements beyond the initial pandemic-driven adoption.
Currently, 80 percent of companies in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector and approximately half of those in manufacturing, are enabling employees to work remotely at least one day per week. The rate is notably higher in larger organizations; 88 percent of manufacturers with 100 or more employees offer remote work options, as do 98 percent of similarly sized firms in the ICT sector.
While around 10 percent of companies currently offering remote work are considering scaling back or eliminating these options, a significantly greater percentage-29 percent in the ICT sector and 34 percent in manufacturing-are planning to expand their remote work capabilities and make them available to a larger proportion of their workforce. Even among companies that don’t currently offer remote work, a considerable number-21 percent in the ICT sector and 9 percent in manufacturing-are considering introduction.
Businesses largely view remote work as having a positive impact on employee satisfaction, with approximately two-thirds highlighting this benefit within hybrid models – those combining remote and office work. More than half also report that hybrid arrangements facilitate recruitment efforts.
However, views are more divided regarding employee retention, with roughly half believing remote work positively impacts retention, while 31 percent anticipate negative effects.
Companies express particular concern regarding the impact of remote work on internal communication and teamwork, with approximately two-thirds perceiving a disadvantage. This concern potentially contributes to the fact that 41 percent anticipate negative effects on innovation, compared to less than 10 percent who foresee positive effects of hybrid models on internal communication or innovation.
Opinions on the impact of hybrid models on employee productivity are also mixed. While roughly one-third of companies fear negative impacts, around 20 percent anticipate productivity benefits, with the remaining half predicting no significant effect.
The survey, conducted in June 2025, encompassed approximately 1,200 companies across Germany, specifically within the manufacturing sector and the information/communications technology industry, including media service providers and knowledge-intensive service providers.