Jan. 16, 2026 — Redmond, Wash. Microsoft’s return-to-office policy, requiring Puget Sound-area employees within 50 miles of its offices to work onsite at least three days per week starting Feb. 23, is poised to increase foot traffic and revenue for small businesses near Redmond Town Center and Millennium Corporate Park.
The tech giant recently renewed a nearly 400,000-square-foot lease at Redmond Town Center and reoccupied 480,000 square feet at Millennium Corporate Park, securing almost 900,000 square feet in total ahead of the mandate. These moves reverse post-pandemic remote work trends and align with strategies to foster in-person collaboration, as outlined by Microsoft’s chief human resources officer, Amy Coleman.
“We’ve looked at how our teams work best, and the data is clear: when people work together in person more often, they thrive — they are more energized, empowered, and they deliver stronger results.”
Local business owners expressed optimism about anticipated lunch crowds, meetings, and after-work visits from thousands of returning workers.
Joon Likitjesada, owner of Sip Thai Zoom in downtown Redmond, anticipates growth from Microsoft employees.
“I’m not selling the food. I sell the experience with the employee who can talk to the customers.” / “Because sometimes they come here to have a meeting, are part of the lunch crowd, or bring a party from their work, and I would like to get a bigger space.”
Thomas Wilhite, owner of Palmer’s, noted a decline in lunch business since COVID.
“We survived on Microsoft back in the day, and I’ve definitely seen a decline since they haven’t been around ever since COVID.” / “It’s got to be a win-win. How could it not? The more people that are out and about, it’s a win-win.”
A City of Redmond spokesperson welcomed the development:
“The City of Redmond welcomes the energy that comes with more people returning to local workplaces. We look forward to these employees reconnecting with the restaurants, shops, and small businesses that make Redmond such a vibrant community.”
Microsoft spokesperson stated the company evaluates offices to create exceptional workplaces fostering collaboration.
The policy follows similar mandates at Amazon and Meta and applies initially to the Puget Sound region, with exceptions.
For more on local anticipation, see previous coverage.
Video: KOMO News segment on small businesses preparing for economic boost from Microsoft’s return-to-office policy.
