Reports Benefits, Reward & Experience

Return on Wellbeing 2026: Building a Top Talent Moat in the Age of AI

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Wellhub’s Return on Wellbeing 2026 report explores the growing relationship between employee wellbeing, talent retention and business performance as organisations navigate AI-driven change, economic uncertainty and increasing workforce pressures.

Based on a survey of 1,515 HR leaders across 10 countries, including the UK, the report finds that 89% of UK organisations identify retaining top performers as a priority for 2026, while 86% believe employee wellbeing is critical to financial success. Additionally, 80% say wellbeing programmes are important for retaining their highest-performing employees. The findings highlight the financial implications of poor workforce wellbeing, with 72% of UK HR leaders reporting that declining employee mental health contributes to higher organisational costs.

The research argues that sustainable business performance depends not simply on investing in wellbeing programmes, but on embedding meaningful support into organisational culture, leadership and everyday working practices.

Report

How employee wellbeing drives talent retention, productivity and business performance in the age of AI

The report also examines the growing influence of finance teams on wellbeing investment, the competition for AI-skilled talent and the shift towards more integrated, measurable wellbeing strategies. Audience: HR Leaders, People & Culture Professionals, Workplace Wellbeing Leaders, Reward & Benefits Professionals, Occupational Health Leaders, Business Leaders and Senior Executives.

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