200 companies in the UK have switched to a four-day workweek without losing pay for all their employees, The Guardian reports.

The companies employ more than 5,000 people.

Joe Ryle, the 4 Day Week Foundation campaign director

"9-5, five-day working week was invented 100 years ago and is no longer fit for purpose. We are long overdue an update. With “50% more free time, a four-day week gives people the freedom to live happier, more fulfilling lives."

The largest number of such companies is in London (59 out of 200). By sector, charities (29), marketing (30) and technology companies (24) lead the way among those who have joined the campaign.

In 2023, British employers tested the four-day workweek format. 9 out of 10 companies that participated in the study decided to continue after the pilot. At the time, the pilot involved 2,900 employees across a range of industries.