Martha Stewart on ‘rampage’ to get people back into the office

Martha Stewart says the U.S. must get back to the office or risk becoming a stagnant country.

In an interview with Footwear News, the television personality said that she doubts people can get everything done on a hybrid work model, let alone a fully remote model.

“Look at the success of France with their stupid … you know, off for August, blah blah blah. That’s not a very thriving country. Should America go down the drain because people don’t want to go back to work?” Ms. Stewart said.

She said she’s determined to get people back to work and is on a “rampage” to fill U.S. offices.

Ms. Stewart’s comments come during an employer backlash against remote work. Giant companies like Amazon have required their workers to come back to the office at least three days a week, and Goldman Sachs has asked their employees to come in five days a week.

Despite employers’ orders, remote work remains incredibly popular. Most workers don’t want to give up the freedom that remote work offered them during the height of the pandemic. Studies have shown that remote work allows employees to spend more time with their families and hobbies and doesn’t reduce productivity.

However, the massive and expensive office spaces on which businesses pay rent are sitting idle, which may be a contributing factor for employers pushing for a return to the office. Some executives also say working in offices together promotes collaboration.

According to recent studies, office space in the U.S. stands at around 50% occupancy from pre-pandemic levels.