Your support helps us to tell the story Read more Support Now From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more

John Lewis is encouraging its employees to increase their in-office presence as part of its ongoing efforts to revitalise the retail group.

The John Lewis Partnership, which refers to its staff as partners, has sent a memo asking for them to work “more in person than not” – whether at their desks or engaging with suppliers and customers.

The directive, initially reported by The Telegraph, aims to foster “better outcomes” for the wider group, which also encompasses the Waitrose supermarket chain.

Despite the push, John Lewis said that its official policy “hasn’t changed” and said it is committed to a hybrid working model for its workforce.

In the memo, the company said: “Many organisations have noticed improvements in collaboration and culture alongside improved business performance as a result of a hybrid model – one that allows for more time in person while still enjoying the benefits of working time at home too.”

It also indicated that it is considering options to “create more space” in its existing offices to allow for staff to attend more regularly.

John Lewis Partnership says its official policy ‘hasn’t changed’ ( PA Archive )

It comes a month after John Lewis revealed that its profits before tax, bonus and exceptional items rose by 6 per cent to £134 million for the past year.

Workers at the John Lewis Partnership received an annual bonus for the first time in four years as a result.

A John Lewis spokesman said: “While some in our industry are returning to the office full time, our policy hasn’t changed and we are committed to the flexibility that comes with a hybrid approach.

“To drive collaboration, faster decision-making and creativity, our goal is for central teams to be in the office, with suppliers and visiting shops more than they are at home, so we are working with them to make this happen.”

Earlier this year, the John Lewis Partnership announced a 6.9 per cent pay increase for its shop workers, effective from 1 April.

Shop floor employees across both brands will see their minimum hourly rate climb to £13.25 nationwide.

For those working within the M25, the minimum rate will further increase to £14.80.