TollFreeForwarding.com’s new research shows which industries are embracing remote and hybrid work despite stricter return-to-office (RTO) policies from companies like Amazon, Dell, and Boeing. The study evaluates sectors based on paid leave, flexible schedules, and adaptable workspaces—features workers seek for better work-life balance in 2025.
The Business Case for Flexibility
A growing body of research supports hybrid and remote work, with the International Workplace Group (IWG) linking it to lower stress, fewer sick days, and better access to preventive healthcare. However, many employers are calling for in-office attendance. This tension is growing, with one-third of global employees saying they would leave if remote work was removed.
How Flexibility Was Scored
Researchers at TollFreeForwarding.com created a scoring system using three criteria:
- Access to paid holidays
- Access to flexible workplaces
- Access to flexible schedules
Each industry received a score from 1 to 100, then averaged into a final rating. The results show where flexibility exists and how well it’s supported in practice.
Top 10 Most Flexible Industries in 2025
Based on average flexibility scores:
- Professional, Scientific & Technical Services (92)
- Information (80)
- Wholesale Trade (78)
- Professional & Business Services (71)
- Manufacturing (70)
- Utilities (69)
- Real Estate, Rental & Leasing (63)
- Healthcare (55)
- Goods Producing (53)
These rankings serve as benchmarks for businesses—especially B2B organisations—seeking to retain talent through flexible work models.
Why Finance, Tech and Science Sectors Lead
Finance & Insurance
This sector earned a score of 94, supported by secure systems and regulatory-compliant access. The study found 98% of workers receive paid vacation, 33% have flexible workplaces, and 40% enjoy flexible schedules.
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
The legal, IT consulting, and accounting services has received a score of 92 . Nearly half the workforce has flexible schedules, and 42% have access to flexible workspaces. These knowledge-based roles fit well with digital collaboration.
Information Industry
The informaton industry sector, including publishing, telecom, and media, scored 80. With 92% of employees receiving paid leave and 33% with flexible schedules, its workflows are naturally suited to remote operations.
Flexibility Gaps in Traditional Sectors
Elementary and Secondary Education was the least flexible. Teaching requires physical presence, underlining the divide between digital-first industries and service-based sectors.
Flexibility as a Competitive Advantage
David Campbell of Brand Rebellion said:
“It’s about moulding opportunities that fit not just where people work, but how and when they work, to drive engagement, satisfaction and ultimately, productivity and innovation.”
Jason O’Brien, COO of TollFreeForwarding.com, added:
“Flexible work gives us the freedom to balance productivity and well-being, allowing us to work where we thrive best… The key is finding the right balance—leveraging flexibility while embracing the moments that make in-person interaction meaningful.”
Conclusion
The TollFreeForwarding.com study shows where workplace flexibility is thriving in 2025. Traditional work models clash with employee expectations, forward-thinking industries are redefining how and where work happens.