Are satellite offices a good or bad idea?
November 5, 2024
The workplace has undergone a radical transformation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the many developments, the adoption of satellite offices by several major companies has attracted a great deal of attention.
This solution, which continues to gain in popularity, offers an interesting alternative for remote workers, and in particular for all cross-border commuters! Let's take a look at this trend, which has many advantages, but also a few drawbacks.
What is a satellite office?
Un bureau satellite est un espace de travail décentralisé situé à une certaine distance du siège social de l'entreprise. Ces bureaux se trouvent souvent en périphérie d’une ville ou près des frontières. Ils permettent aux employés de travailler plus près de chez eux, de limiter leur temps de trajet, tout en bénéficiant des infrastructures et des ressources de leur entreprise.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, they have flourished in Windhof and Capellen for workers from Belgium, in Wasserbillig, Grevenmacher or Munsbach for their German counterparts. In Belval, Dudelange, Frisange or Mondorf for the French. These locations are not necessarily known for their office activities, but they do provide a base for employees. In fact, most of these sites are residential properties or industrial premises converted into offices.
The pros of satellite offices
Reducing travel time
One of the most obvious advantages of satellite offices is the reduction in commuting time. For cross-border workers, this means less stress and more time for personal activities. Who doesn't want to spend less time on the road and more time enjoying their free time?
Flexibility and quality of life
Satellite offices offer greater flexibility, allowing employees to choose between different workplaces according to their needs and personal constraints. This contributes to a better quality of life and a better work-life balance.
This initiative enables employees to reduce mobility problems (and the associated carbon footprint), while at the same time restoring greater equity in the number of teleworking days achievable for non-residents compared with residents.
Increased productivity
Working in a well-equipped office environment can boost productivity. Modern equipment, meeting rooms and relaxation areas promote an efficient and motivating working climate.
The cons of satellite offices
Installation and maintenance costs
The installation and maintenance of satellite offices represents a substantial investment for companies. Costs include rental of premises, purchase of furniture and equipment, and maintenance.
Coordination and management
Managing several satellite offices requires rigorous coordination. Companies need to set up efficient systems to manage workstation reservations, attendance rules and communication between different sites.
Social isolation
Working in a satellite office, far from head office, can leave some employees feeling isolated. Social interaction with colleagues is reduced, even if it is less than when telecommuting, which can affect team cohesion and corporate culture.
Satellite offices: examples from Luxembourg
PwC Luxembourg is a pioneer in the adoption of satellite offices, with eight workspaces spread across the country. The Windhof offices, for example, offer 46 fully-equipped workstations, videoconferencing meeting rooms and relaxation areas. Banking group BNP Paribas has also opened satellite offices in Windhof and Bettembourg, offering a total of 180 workstations.
The Raiffeisen bank provides access to 6 decentralized offices in Steinfort, Differdange, Kayl, Mondorf-les-Bains and Niederfeulen and Wasserbillig.
Insurer Bâloise has opened a satellite office in Belval, while Alter Domus has done the same in Steinfort, Frisange...
These initiatives demonstrate the growing importance of satellite offices in Luxembourg's financial sector.
