Halting EV Charging in Parking Garages Over Fire Risk
State Farm has discontinued the use of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in parking garages at its Illinois headquarters due to fire safety concerns. This decision, based on an Enterprise Risk Assessment and evaluations by local fire departments, will be implemented nationwide. While acknowledging the impact on employees who rely on EV charging, State Farm prioritizes employee safety.
This shift mirrors concerns within the collision repair industry. Storing damaged EVs presents increased fire risks, leading to higher storage costs for repair shops. This issue was highlighted in a state Senate bill, SB1853, though it did not pass during the 2024 session.
Meanwhile, Allstate is embracing a hybrid work model, allowing a quarter of its corporate employees to work from day-to-day office bookings through a platform like LiquidSpace. This shift has reduced Allstate's office footprint significantly, with a corresponding decrease in real estate spending from $244 million to $138 million this year.
While employees appreciate the flexibility of remote work, the need for in-person collaboration and mentorship has become evident. Allstate is adapting to these needs by creating collaborative workspaces and fostering a strong company culture.
These developments align with broader industry trends. According to Cushman & Wakefield, 63% of corporate real estate occupiers plan to reduce their footprint by 2025. This shift reflects a focus on cost optimization, talent attraction, and employee well-being, with flexibility and employee experience emerging as key drivers for workplace success.
