StanChart considers holographic watercoolers for hybrid working overhaul

Standard Chartered’s internal ‘watercooler challenge’ has produced a shortlist of potential projects to keep staff in touch outside the office. The holographic meeting idea proposes matching staff using similar technology to dating services. — Reuters

Standard Chartered Plc will formalise a hybrid working model for most of its UK staff this week as it moves forward with a sweeping overhaul of its working practices in the wake of the pandemic.

The lender is rolling out the programme to its 85,000 staff globally after 84% of the first wave of workers asked to keep the flexible arrangements pioneered during the coronavirus pandemic, which has forced millions of people across the world to abandon offices and fit working hours alongside other commitments. The bank’s new set-up, first unveiled in November, takes effect from the start of April.