Use of AI could create a four-day week for almost one-third of workers
GuardianJUL 2023
200 UK Firms Switch to Four-Day Week
Above: An exterior view of shops within the Royal Exchange at Bank on Jan. 20, 2025 in London. Image copyright: John Keeble/Contributor/Getty Images via Getty Images News
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The traditional five-day workweek is an outdated concept that no longer serves modern society's needs. The four-day week provides 50% more free time, enabling happier and more fulfilling lives. It also makes it easier to maintain productivity and pay and makes it easier to attract and retain talent.
Pro-establishment narrative
Large-scale adoption of a four-day week will harm UK business competitiveness and make doing business more expensive in the UK, potentially harming economic growth. Major companies maintain strict five-day office attendance requirements and view traditional working patterns as essential for business operations.