Almost four-fifths of UK consumers believe that everything will have a virtual component after the pandemic has ended, according to new research from Zoom.

The study surveyed nearly 8,000 consumers, including over 1,000 in the UK.

Working life stands as the top activity for which Brits want a hybrid approach, with 74 per cent expecting both in-person and virtual components. This is closely followed by interactions with government and public sector services at 68 per cent, and education at 66 per cent.

Conversely, a large proportion of consumers want celebrations such as weddings (57 per cent), real estate, including property tours (47 per cent ), and events like festivals (46 per cent) to take place only in-person.

“Since the start of the pandemic, video conferencing has helped people stay connected and stave off feelings of loneliness and isolation,” said Phil Perry, head of UK & Ireland at Zoom. “But that doesn’t mean it’s the sole solution for every activity. Aspects like forging a level of personal connection are difficult to achieve virtually at the same level as people would in-person.

Perry added: "Clearly, the demand for a hybrid approach will pave the future, with face-to-face interactions enabling deeper relationships and personal experiences, and virtual components maintaining the convenience of connecting with colleagues and loved ones wherever they are.”

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