2025 trends in fringe benefits

Competition for high-quality talent remains fierce in Belgium, and fringe benefits will continue to be a crucial asset for organisations looking to stand out in the ‘war for talent’. To support organisations in this strategic approach, recruitment specialist Robert Walters researched the current trends and preferences of Belgian employees and employers when it comes to fringe benefits. Özlem Simsek, Managing Director at Robert Walters, shares the key findings. 

Desired benefits

For professionals considering a new job, some fringe benefits remain crucial. Employee preferences in 2025 are clear:

• Company car or transport allowance (64%) 

• Flexible working or working from home (55%)  

• Hospitalisation insurance (54%) 

• Group insurance or pension contribution (50%) 

• Performance bonus (49%) 

‘These results clearly show that when considering a new job, employees are primarily looking for benefits that both strengthen their financial security and support their well-being,’ Özlem says. ‘Company cars, hospitalisation insurance and the ability to work flexibly remain top priorities for professionals. Employers who offer these benefits thus respond to the most important needs of their employees and can set themselves apart in a competitive labour market.’

Dynamic evolution

In a dynamic labour market, organisations continue to adapt their offerings to meet the changing needs of their staff. Robert Walters' research shows that many employers have offered new or improved fringe benefits to their employees in the past year. The main improvements were:

• Expense allowance (26%) 

• Company car or e-bike (14%) 

• Bonus scheme (14%) 

• Meal vouchers (14%)

Özlem notes: ‘Employers continue to look for ways to enrich their benefits package to meet the diverse needs of their employees. Offering expense allowances, meal vouchers and flexible options such as company cars or e-bikes shows that employers are aware of the need to provide not only financial security but also practical benefits that make their employees' daily lives easier.' 

Focus in 2025: flexibility and recognition

In 2025, employers will rely more than ever on flexibility and personal recognition as key strategies to retain talent. The Robert Walters survey shows that 70% of employers consider flexible working to be one of the most effective retention strategies within their organisation. Özlem: ‘This trend highlights that the hybrid workplace - where employees can flexibly choose between working from home and working in the office - has taken hold. Organisations that invest in it not only demonstrate their responsiveness to the changing needs of their employees, but also position themselves as modern, attractive employers.’

Besides flexibility, the focus on personal recognition is also increasing. The same survey shows that 73% of organisations value their employees' performance through verbal appreciation or personal feedback, while 48% opt for bonuses or financial incentives. These figures show that a mix of formal and informal recognition is crucial to motivate employees and keep them engaged.

‘The most successful employers in 2025 will not only compete on salary and benefits, but also on how they recognise and support their employees. It is no longer just about what you offer, but how you do it. Flexibility, personal appreciation and a focus on well-being are no longer luxuries, but necessary pillars of a strong HR policy,’ Özlem concludes.

More information

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