50 per cent of London firms keen on teleworking during the Olympics

Half of businesses in London have said that they will allow their staff work from home when the Olympic Games starts in a few weeks time.

A study of 250 firms conducted by the Confederation of British Industry found that 50 per cent of firms were in favour of some level of teleworking during the time that the sporting extravaganza is taking place.

Remote working has become increasingly popular in recent years because the technological advancements seen in video conferencing and cloud computing have enabled people to turn anywhere into an office.

In addition to the 50 per cent of willing to let employees work remotely, 57 per cent are prepared to alter their working hours to fit around the games, while 46 per cent have given their staff permission to take time off so that they can attend events.

In terms of what London hosting the Olympics can do for their business, 64 per cent said that they expect their orders and sales to increase while the Games is being played out.

Sara Parker, London director of CBI, however warned that companies need to plan ahead because there will be a number of transport and logistical challenges during the time the games is on.

She said that it is crucial that all firms  plan ahead, particularly for the transport and logistical challenges which lay ahead.

"The scale of the challenge is becoming clear and some businesses are still nervous about their levels of preparedness. That’s why it’s crucial that all companies ensure they plan ahead, particularly for the transport and logistical challenges," she noted.

“It’s encouraging that many firms are already thinking about flexible working during the Games, but with a huge influx of people expected in the capital in a matter of weeks, those who haven’t prepared need to turn their attention to this as a matter of urgency.”

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