A new Colliers International report has revealed that companies are expected to continue allowing their employees to choose where they work this year, with flexible workspaces being part of their operations.

“As occupiers continue to seek a range of geographic locations to solve for a distributed workforce there is a substantial deficit of supply in suburban areas, secondary cities, commuter towns and emerging markets,” reads the Colliers report. “2021 will be the year that non-CBD flexible workspace supply increases dramatically.”

Colliers expects that the increase in supply will come from existing operators, new entrants and even through reconfigured retail and hotel spaces.

However, there is still no one-size-fits-all solution. Meaning flexible office operators, well-established building owners, hotels nor retail spaces will be able to completely solve this demand.

In addition to growing demand for flexibility, technology will also play a significant role in how occupiers create new operational strategies. Platforms such as NeoNomad, Liquid Space and DeskPass will help lead organizations who are planning their return-to-office strategies.

The report added that it could be likely that asset owners may acquire flexible office operators in order to help keep up with demand.

Colliers stated that this year will provide the most accurate insight into how the pandemic has impacted the office industry, and what the long-term effects could look like. Overall, things are slightly looking more optimistic thanks to shifting views on the role of the workplace.