Demand for employee benefits technology rises as employers prepare for 2027 reforms 

Demand for digital employee benefits platforms is accelerating as employers modernise benefits strategies and prepare for regulatory changes, according to new data from wealth management and employee benefits firm Mattioli Woods. 

The company reported that client adoption of its employee benefits technology solutions has increased by more than 350 per cent since 2023. At the same time, its pipeline of organisations exploring or implementing these platforms has grown by 400 per cent over the same period. 

Mattioli Woods said the surge reflects growing employer interest in flexible, personalised and technology-enabled benefits that support workforce wellbeing while helping organisations manage compliance and engagement. 

To support the growth, the firm has expanded its technology consulting and delivery teams and plans further recruitment throughout 2026. 

Sean McSweeney, employee benefits team director at Mattioli Woods, said employers are increasingly viewing benefits technology as a strategic tool. “We are seeing a fundamental shift in how employers view benefits technology,” McSweeney said. “It’s no longer a ‘nice to have’ – it’s a strategic tool for talent attraction, retention and compliance.” 

“The scale of growth since 2023 demonstrates that employers recognise the value of investing in modern, integrated platforms like MyWay. With upcoming regulatory changes and ongoing pressure in the recruitment market, we expect demand for benefits technology to remain exceptionally strong.” 

A digital benefits portal, MyWay allows employees to manage and personalise their benefits through a single platform. Options available through the portal include health cash plans, electric vehicle schemes and wellbeing support delivered through salary sacrifice arrangements. 

The growth in benefits technology reflects broader shifts in workforce expectations and workplace wellbeing strategies. Data from Carers UK shows that nearly three million employees in the UK now combine paid work with caring responsibilities, increasing demand for flexible working arrangements and adaptable benefits. 

Employers are also expanding the range of benefits available to staff. According to the latest Alan Jones UK Benefits Report, 69 per cent of organisations now offer tradeable annual leave, while 80 per cent provide Cycle to Work schemes. Health and wellbeing support is also becoming more common, with more than half of employers offering gym memberships and 39 per cent providing medical screening. 

As benefits become more diverse and personalised, organisations are investing in digital infrastructure to ensure employees can easily access and manage their options. 

Mattioli Woods said technology-enabled platforms are becoming increasingly important for organisations navigating hybrid work patterns, competing for talent and preparing for the payrolling of benefits reforms due to take effect in April 2027. 

For employers, the shift reflects a broader recognition that benefits programmes play a central role in employee engagement, retention and workplace wellbeing — particularly as workforce expectations around flexibility, sustainability and health support continue to evolve.