What Are Employee Benefits – and What Do Today’s Teams Really Want?

What Are Employee Benefits – and What Do Today’s Teams Really Want? 

In today’s world of work, salary alone doesn’t cut it. From remote flexibility to cost-saving perks, employee benefits are no longer “nice to have” they’re a key driver of satisfaction, engagement, and retention. 

But what do modern employees really want from their benefits package, and how can HR teams make smarter choices that support both wellbeing and performance? 

The Value Exchange Has Shifted 

The past few years have radically reshaped the employer-employee relationship. Remote work changed routines, the cost-of-living crisis changed spending habits and employees are now more aware and more selective about the value they get from their roles. 

In fact, according to a 2024 survey from MetLife, 74% of employees say they’re more likely to stay with an employer that offers benefits that support their everyday lives. And with inflation still hitting household budgets, practical perks that provide real savings are rising to the top of the wishlist. 

So, What Do Employees Want? 

At Ello Group, we support HR teams across the UK with insight-led benefits that employees genuinely use and love. From our conversations with partners like Disney, BBC, and HASSRA, three clear themes keep showing up in what employees want from their benefits: 

1. Savings That Show Up in Their Wallet 

Whether it’s 25% off a coffee on the way to work or saving £108 on a day out with the family, everyday savings really matter. Platforms like tastecard and Coffee Club are thriving because they give people the freedom to treat themselves without guilt. 

The proof? Our tastecard members save an average of £960 a year across dining, cinema, coffee, days out and more, making it one of the most cost-effective benefits on the market today. 

2. Flexible, Easy-to-Use Perks 

Today’s teams don’t want long-winded redemption journeys or complicated portals. Benefits should work seamlessly via apps or salary deduction models, with no paperwork or friction. That’s why we’ve built mobile-first user journeys across all our propositions - allowing employees to unlock value with just a tap. 

3. A Personal, Relevant Experience 

A one-size-fits-all approach is outdated. Gen Z may prioritise daily coffee perks and cinema nights, while older employees might value discounts on retail and family-friendly restaurants. That’s why our platforms cater for all demographics from students to professionals, families to retirees. 

Benefits Aren’t Just About the Employee 

Yes, perks should support your people, but the best ones also support your goals as a business. 

✓ Retention & Engagement: Employees who feel valued stay longer. In our work with BBC, we saw tastecard memberships increase by double in two years and Coffee Club’s take-up rate exceeded expectations from day one. 

✓ Productivity & Morale: Happy people do better work. A small gesture like a discount on their morning coffee can turn a Monday into a win. 

✓ Attracting Top Talent: Competitive benefits are a key consideration for jobseekers. Adding a popular reward like tastecard to your EVP can be the differentiator in a tight market. 

Final Thought: The Future is Everyday Benefits 

The most powerful benefits don’t sit in the background - they show up in everyday life. They help staff stretch their salaries, enjoy their time off, and feel recognised for their hard work. 

So, if you're reviewing your benefits strategy, ask this: Is it saving your employees money? Is it easy to use? And does it feel rewarding to them? 

If not, it might be time for a refresh.