Amazon's Seattle campus still quiet as 5-days-in-office deadline hits

Amazon's Return-to-Office Policy - Amazon has increased its in-office work requirement from three days to five days a week, making it one of the strictest companies in the region regarding in-person work [3] - The company believes in-person work enhances collaboration, learning, and innovation, a conviction solidified over the past year and a half of partial in-person mandates [4] - Some employees have resisted the new policy, with petitions, resignations, and job searches emerging as a result [4][12] Impact on Seattle's Business Environment - Amazon's return is expected to revitalize Seattle's business corridor, which has struggled to regain pre-pandemic vibrancy [5] - Local businesses, such as King Leroy restaurant, anticipate increased demand from Amazon employees, potentially shifting their revenue focus from dinner to lunch [6][7] - Downtown Seattle saw a 5% increase in weekday workers in November 2024 compared to November 2023, though it remains at only 56% of pre-pandemic levels [7] Broader Industry and Real Estate Implications - Amazon's decisive return-to-office policy has inspired other businesses to solidify their own plans, potentially leading to a broader shift in workplace norms [8] - Office space demand is evolving, with businesses seeking smaller spaces due to hybrid work models, leading to an estimated increase in Seattle's office vacancy rate from 30% to 40% over the next 18 months [9] - Despite higher vacancy rates, optimism remains as increased supply could lead to favorable leasing terms for tenants [9] Employee and Operational Adjustments - Amazon employees are experiencing a "learning curve" with the new policy, with some expressing concerns about reduced flexibility and work-life balance [11][12][13] - The company is working to ensure a smooth transition, though enforcement details, such as minimum daily office hours, remain unclear [13][14] - Amazon delayed the return-to-office deadline for employees in at least seven cities, though its primary headquarters in Seattle, Bellevue, and Redmond were unaffected [14]