Redmond small businesses prepare for economic boost as Microsoft ends remote work

"When large companies require employees to end remote work and return to the office (RTO), the effects typically ripple through local economies and nearby small businesses. There can be more foot traffic and spending at restaurants, cafés, and coffee shops as office workers take lunch breaks or visit shopping districts before or after their shifts. Convenience stores, dry cleaners, food trucks, and gyms can also see an uptick, leading to improved weekday sales and a steadier cash flow."

"KOMO News has reached out to the tech giant as well as city officials to confirm reports that Microsoft renewed its lease at the Redmond Town Center as well as the Millennium Corporate Park, which is near downtown Redmond. Combined, these facilities offer nearly 900,000 square feet of office space. The move may also bring new vitality to Redmond's business districts, leading to fewer vacant storefronts and more sales, business, and occupation taxes for the city. Commercial property values could also see more stability."

"The move by Microsoft signals a shift from its previous hybrid work philosophy and brings it more in line with companies such as Amazon and Meta, which enacted return-to-office policies for their workers in prior years following the COVID pandemic. Starting Feb. 23, Microsoft will require its employees to be in the office a minimum of three days per week, though there a"

Microsoft is securing additional office space in Redmond, renewing leases at Redmond Town Center and Millennium Corporate Park, offering nearly 900,000 square feet. The company's return-to-office policy will require employees to be in the office three days per week starting Feb. 23. The return is expected to increase foot traffic and spending at restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, dry cleaners, food trucks, gyms and local businesses. Small businesses may see improved sales, steadier cash flow, and more hiring. The change may reduce vacant storefronts, raise tax revenue, and stabilize commercial property values. Workers may face higher commuting costs and greater childcare needs.

Read at KOMO