Remote workers across the UK could be slashing their expenses by up to 70 percent simply by opting to work from their local pub instead of a traditional coworking space, according to a recent study conducted by Alliance Online.
The research delved into the coworking deals provided by six major pub chains in the UK, comparing them against the offerings of five nationwide coworking spaces.
The results were staggering: the average daily cost of working from a pub stands at a mere £13, significantly undercutting the average daily cost of a desk in a coworking space, which sits at £22.
However, the study also unveiled a crucial caveat: while working from a pub proves cheaper for one-off ventures, committing to a daily routine of working from a pub throughout a month could lead to expenses amounting to £390.
This figure stands at 54 percent more than the average monthly coworking membership, which typically comes in at £253.
Freebies and package deals
One of the striking features discovered by the researchers was that all the pubs included in the analysis offered guests complimentary WiFi access along with unlimited tea and coffee. Moreover, some establishments went the extra mile by providing breakfast or lunch as part of their package deals.
Rachael Kiss, a spokesperson from Alliance Online, shared three insightful tips for remote workers looking to maximise their value when working from a pub:
- Timing is Crucial: Arrive at your chosen pub during off-peak hours to avoid overcrowding. Not only will this ensure a more comfortable and productive work environment, but it will also allow you to make the most of the unlimited WiFi and refreshments typically offered by these establishments.
- Understand Your Environment: Recognise that working from a pub entails a different ambiance compared to a traditional coworking space. While the background noise characteristic of pubs may enhance productivity for some individuals, others may find it distracting. Consider bringing headphones to mitigate potential disturbances.
- Seize the Freebies: Take full advantage of the complimentary amenities provided by the pub. Utilise the unlimited WiFi and indulge in the offered tea and coffee throughout your stay. Additionally, strive to minimise waste by using a single mug for your beverages, thus contributing to the efficiency of the hospitality staff.
Alliance Online released these findings to highlight cost-effective alternatives for remote workers amidst the prevailing cost of living crisis. With pubs offering a viable and economical solution for workspace, it seems that traditional office setups may soon face formidable competition from the humble watering hole.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
