Remote work & return to office
Remote and hybrid work policies, return-to-office mandates and the disputes around them.
4 briefs
Today · Monday 26 October
- United States·News
Fender denies layoffs after WARN notice, says staff return in new year
Guitar maker Fender responded to online layoff rumors, saying the WARN notice is not associated with layoffs and that employees will return to work in the new year. The notice relates to a temporary shutdown at its Corona, California factory during holiday inventory quiet weeks.
Saturday 24 October
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Myer Cancels Work From Home for Corporate Staff Ahead of Office Switch
Myer, an Australian department store, cancels work-from-home for corporate staff, requiring five-day office attendance from November at its new Melbourne headquarters. The move conflicts with Victoria's proposed right-to-WFH legislation.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK Employers Face Legal Risks Over Mandatory Return-to-Office Mandates
UK employers forcing full return-to-office in 2026 face legal risks, as remote and hybrid work have become de facto employment terms since 2020. Written offers, emails and years of hybrid practice may constitute implied contract terms; unilateral termination could trigger claims. An HR director previously lost an employment tribunal case.
- Europe·Policy & Law
German report clarifies when home office accidents count as workplace accidents
German labor law clarifies when home office accidents qualify as workplace injuries, according to FAZ reporting, though specific case decisions and legal details were not provided.