Amazon has announced that its corporate and tech workers will be returning to the office five days a week starting in January, reverting back to the pre-COVID work format. This decision is expected to bring a boost in foot traffic to downtown Seattle and the neighborhoods surrounding Amazon’s headquarters. The Downtown Seattle Association has been applauding Amazon’s efforts to bring workers back to their office buildings in South Lake Union and Denny Triangle, as this will benefit local businesses like restaurants, food trucks, and doggy daycares.
The initial announcement in February 2023, when employees were required to return to the office three days a week, was met with mixed reactions. Some employees expressed concerns over the commute and other issues, leading to tensions within the company. Pamela Hayter, a former Amazon employee who launched the “Remote Advocacy” Slack channel, cited concerns about affordability and leadership decisions. However, with the latest directive from CEO Andy Jassy for a full return to office work, some businesses around Amazon HQ are looking forward to the increased foot traffic and business opportunities that come with it.
While some businesses have thrived during the three-days-per-week policy, others are eager for a more consistent flow of customers. The increased vibrancy around Amazon HQ during the days when employees are in the office has been noticeable, with many hoping for a return to the bustling workweek environment. Brandon Vogel, who works in the neighborhood, acknowledges the positive impact of having people around and hopes for a return to a more vibrant society. Despite the excitement, efforts will be needed to restore foot traffic levels to pre-pandemic numbers, as Seattle still lags behind other cities in terms of daily workers.
The policy change has sparked discussions among Amazon employees, with some expressing disappointment over the decision to return to five days a week in the office. While some enjoy the less crowded environment on Mondays and Fridays, others are concerned about the potential impact on their routines and work-life balance. The decision to prioritize in-person work and collaboration has raised questions about the motivations behind the policy change, with some speculating that it may be driven by a desire to fill up parking lots. Ultimately, the return to full in-person work at Amazon is expected to have a significant impact on downtown Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods, boosting business and foot traffic in the area.
