Vivienne Westwood adopts WFH model for a sustainable future
Vivienne Westwood, a leading fashion house in the UK, has embraced the future of work by implementing a hybrid model, allowing most of its approximately 250 employees to work from home three days a week.
This strategic move, communicated to staff at its Battersea headquarters, reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and echoes a broader trend as two-thirds of businesses plan to adopt flexible work models in 2024.
The decision to reduce in-office presence aligns with the global push towards environmental responsibility. The fashion industry, notorious for its substantial carbon footprint, is under increasing scrutiny, prompting eco-conscious initiatives. Vivienne Westwood, known for its avant-garde designs, is leading the charge, drawing inspiration from its late founder Dame Vivienne Westwood, a vocal climate change activist.
By endorsing a work-from-home (WFH) model, Vivienne Westwood not only addresses environmental concerns but also demonstrates a shrewd business strategy. WFH is a straightforward solution to cut transportation emissions, aligning with the company’s sustainability goals. This approach is particularly significant for an industry facing criticism for its ecological impact, with the rise of sustainable and upcycling brands challenging the status quo.
In addition to reducing its carbon footprint, Vivienne Westwood’s WFH policy brings about substantial cost savings. This green and lean approach avoids the expenses associated with maintaining extensive office spaces, contributing to the company’s bottom line. With a 53% increase in turnover and profits reaching £38m, the brand acknowledges the ongoing challenges in the wider retail landscape, emphasising the need for strategic pricing reviews.
The move towards flexible work is not only environmentally conscious but also aligns with broader employee satisfaction trends. Research indicates that hybrid work models positively impact employee engagement, a crucial consideration in the current business landscape. For the fashion industry, which caters to a Generation Z audience increasingly prioritising sustainability, adopting flexible working practices becomes a vital strategy to attract and retain talent.
As Vivienne Westwood leads the charge in embracing a green and flexible work model, the company sets a high standard for the industry. The fashion house not only makes a statement with its designs but also with its commitment to environmental responsibility, reflecting the evolving priorities of both consumers and the workforce in 2024.
