Scott Salmirs, CEO of ABM Industries for over 22 years, has an insider’s perspective on the ongoing tug-of-war between employers and employees over return-to-office (RTO) policies. As a company that services more than half of the Fortune 500, ABM is uniquely positioned to observe how organizations are adapting their office spaces and workplace strategies.
While many have assumed that the push-pull of RTO has settled into a hybrid equilibrium, Salmirs argues the battle isn't over. In fact, he believes it’s far from it — especially as the labor market begins to tilt back in favor of employers.
“This return to office is still happening — absolutely,” Salmirs told *Fortune*. “And with the current economic climate, we’ll really see what companies are thinking.”
The Office Evolution: From Open Plans to Pantry Perks
As companies attempt to draw workers back into offices, they’re making significant changes to the physical workspace. Many large corporations are downsizing headcount and streamlining operations, which has led to a shift away from outdated, sprawling office spaces. Instead, companies are opting for smaller, high-quality Class A buildings located in central, desirable areas.
They’re also rethinking interior design. The once-popular open-plan layouts are being replaced with more private, flexible workspaces designed to foster both collaboration and concentration.
“They’re converting open spaces into conference rooms and secluded nooks,” Salmirs explained. “It’s about creating a more hospitable environment.”
And then there’s the pantry factor.
“Companies are paying close attention to what they offer in pantries — the coffee, the snacks, all those little touches,” he said. “It really matters to employees.”
In addition to comfort and convenience, cleanliness has become a top priority since the pandemic. Some companies are even moving cleaning staff to daytime shifts so employees can visibly see the maintenance efforts, reinforcing a sense of safety and hygiene.
What’s Next for Return to Office?
Despite predictions of an "office apocalypse" during the pandemic, Salmirs says corporate real estate — particularly Class A buildings — remains resilient. These premium spaces, with modern amenities and prime locations, are seeing leasing rates and occupancy levels near pre-pandemic highs.
Class B and C properties, however, are struggling. As companies downsize, they're choosing to invest more per square foot in better-quality spaces that attract talent and encourage in-office attendance.
Salmirs expects this trend to continue — and for the number of required in-office days to gradually increase.
“I think we’ll see an incremental shift toward one more day,” he said. “If you're at three days a week, expect four. If you're at four, maybe five. I believe this will happen over the next six to nine months.”
The key driver? The changing dynamics of the job market. Four years ago, employees had the upper hand — if you didn’t like your employer’s RTO policy, you could easily find another job. Now, with hiring slowing and job security more uncertain, employers feel emboldened to ask for more.
Designing for Culture, Not Just Cubicles
For Salmirs, the future of office space hinges on understanding employee behavior and organizational culture.
“You need to start by understanding how people actually work,” he said. “Are they collaborating in teams? Do they focus on solo tasks? Are they frequently on calls or video conferences?”
This insight should drive how companies configure their spaces — ensuring that office environments support real work habits rather than just aesthetics or tradition.
In short, the office isn’t going anywhere. But it is evolving — into something smarter, cleaner, and more attuned to what employees actually want.