How to build a benefits package that appeals to the modern workforce

Where, how and when we work has changed dramatically in the last few years and with that, so have the expectations of the typical employee benefits package. The rise of hybrid and remote working, the arrival of a new generation in the workforce, and significantly increased living costs have driven the need for perks that focus on achieving work/life balance.

This means that you need to think about how your employee benefits package can support greater flexibility and sympathy for the various life commitments and curveballs we all find ourselves juggling from time to time. In addition to statutory benefits, such as life insurance and pension schemes, you should consider rolling out a benefits portal filled with optional initiatives that further support health and wellbeing. 

An employee benefits package that fails to reflect these priorities risks falling flat in today’s competitive talent market. For employers, the challenge is no longer just about offering a few random benefits, but curating a meaningful package that resonates with a broadly diverse and evolving workforce.

In this blog, we’ll look deeper into the reasons that a flexible company benefits package matters and share our thoughts on how to create an attractive package that will appeal to your modern workforce.

Why a flexible company benefits package matters in 2025

No two people are the same. Their likes and dislikes, their life stage, their financial situation, their mental and/or physical health status. Every one of your staff members is unique, so how do you go about creating an employee benefits package that can suit the masses?

Flexibility is central. It’s about offering a package that provides choice, options and movement. And whilst everyone might choose something different at the granular level, the key is to tap into broader themes that everyone will appreciate. 

And it’s not just employees who benefit from a flexible benefits package. Research shows that employees who feel their benefits match their personal needs report higher levels of engagement and loyalty. For you as an employer, this means a lower turnover, stronger retention and a positive reputation in the recruitment market. 

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The key components of an attractive employee benefits package

When designing an employee benefits package that appeals to today’s workforce, the most effective approach is to blend financial support, wellbeing perks and lifestyle options. It’s vital to invest in a package that offers variety, flexibility and relevancy for every life milestone. 

Younger workers may be looking for everyday savings and personal development. They’re therefore likely to appreciate financial support with purchasing high price items, be that a new tech device, a new car, or household appliances for their first independent home. Gym memberships are popular with this demographic.

For the parents in your workforce, the opportunity to use salary sacrifice schemes to alleviate the upfront cost of running a more expensive household may bring peace of mind, especially when children return to school and expenses rise, or when they move away for university and need support with tech and home essentials.

Older employees are likely to focus on health and ongoing financial stability. In addition to a company pension scheme, providing opportunities to make savings on the cost of commuting and everyday expenses will enable them to save more for the future.

Remote or hybrid staff are likely to require different benefits to those who are office-based. Schemes that promote easier homeworking or ways to incorporate additional exercise into their day may prove very attractive.

By offering a flexible company benefits package, you enable every employee to select the perks and support that align most closely with their needs, boosting satisfaction and fostering long-term loyalty.

Addressing the needs of your modern, diverse workforce

To provide something that works for all of these demographics, you should aim to offer a broad spectrum of inclusive benefits that tap into multiple emotional needs and can be adapted to work for each individual’s situation. Let’s look at how BHN Extras benefits do both of these things.

Physical health initiatives

Physical wellbeing is a top priority for many. BHN Extras offers two very different aspects in this arena, providing your company benefits package with something to suit everyone.

MyGymDiscounts offers staff the chance to save up to 25% at gyms, leisure centres and fitness classes nationwide.

Cyclescheme allows employees to save up to 47% on the cost of a new bike and accessories. Ideal as an alternative, healthier, greener means of commuting, whilst simultaneously boosting cardiovascular health.

Financial stability and everyday savings

52% report that money worries are having a negative effect on their work performance. As an employer, you can relieve this key stressor by providing financial wellbeing solutions that can help employees stretch their money a little bit further. 

Prepaid shopping cards like the bYond Card can deliver ongoing savings across groceries, fashion, travel and more. And Extras Discounts on popular brand gift cards allow employees to budget, spend and gift more efficiently.

Salary sacrifice schemes such as Home & Tech Scheme, Cyclescheme and Green Car Benefit give employees access to big-ticket items, such as home appliances, new devices, cycling accessories, and low-emission cars without upfront costs. These payments are interest free and supported by tax and National Insurance savings, making salary sacrifice a cost-effective way to upgrade personal belongings.

Mental wellbeing support

Mental health problems are one of the UK’s fastest growing concerns. With so many potential factors contributing to any one person’s mental state, it’s imperative that your company benefits package works hard to offer solutions and support for this aspect of your employees’ lives.

Implementing flexible working arrangements and organising access to counselling and therapy services are valid strategies for supporting mental health in the workplace. In addition to this, the combination of the benefits highlighted above are all targeted at simultaneously supporting mental wellbeing.

Cyclescheme and MyGymDiscounts offer emotional and physical release, with exercise well-documented to improve symptoms of mental health conditions. Tech & Home Scheme, bYond Card, and other cost saving initiatives such as gift card discounts and childcare vouchers, allow more peace of mind when it comes to managing life finances.

Finally, providing access to the science-backed employee wellbeing app, syd™, allows your employees to get tailored health recommendations and structured goals based on their personal data.

Ready to build an employee benefits package that works?

By tailoring your employee benefits package to reflect diverse lifestyles and priorities, you not only support the wellbeing of your people but also strengthen your business. 

Flexible schemes such as Home & Tech Scheme and Cyclescheme, everyday savings tools like bYond Card, and wellness perks like MyGymDiscounts combine to create a package that feels relevant, valuable and easy to use. With the right approach, benefits move beyond a box-ticking exercise and become a core part of your employee value proposition.

Blackhawk Network Extras makes it simple to design, manage and promote your company benefits package, ensuring every employee can access support that genuinely improves their daily lives. If you’d like a demo of the platform, one of our team will be happy to show you around. 

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