Benefits That Get It: Top 5 Trends Your Employees Will Actually Care About

Canadian employers are reevaluating their approach to employee group benefits to attract and retain top talent. With changes in employee expectations, advances in technology, and a growing emphasis on mental health and wellness, companies must stay current to remain competitive.

Here are the top 5 trends shaping employee group benefits in Canada heading into 2025:

1. Flexible and Personalized Benefits Plans

Traditional, one-size-fits-all benefits packages are being phased out in favor of more

flexible and personalized options. Employees increasingly expect benefits that cater to their individual needs, whether that means more coverage for mental health, fitness memberships, or enhanced family care options. Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health spending accounts (HSAs) are popular options, allowing employees to allocate funds to areas that matter most to them.

This trend reflects the changing demographic and lifestyle diversity of the modern workforce, making benefits more adaptable and valuable.

2. Mental Health and Wellness Support

As mental health awareness continues to grow, employers are expanding their mental health and wellness offerings. Group benefits now include coverage for therapy, counselling, and access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Many employers are also investing in mental health apps and wellness platforms to provide more immediate and accessible support. This shift acknowledges the increasing role mental well-being plays in overall productivity and employee satisfaction.

According to a survey by Job Seeker, 77% of professionals view mental health support as essential components of job satisfaction, underscoring the importance of providing comprehensive support.

3. Digital Health Tools and Telemedicine

Advances in technology are revolutionizing how benefits are delivered, with digital health tools and telemedicine are playing a pivotal role. Virtual care services, which surged in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, are now a mainstay of many group benefits plans. Employees can consult healthcare providers remotely, access health information through apps, and manage prescriptions online. These services save time and increase convenience, while also addressing accessibility issues in remote areas.

As more Canadians become comfortable with technology, telemedicine will continue to be a vital component of group benefits plans, particularly for organizations looking to offer enhanced healthcare access to a geographically dispersed workforce.

4. Financial Wellness Programs

According to a study the Government of Canada, financially stressed employees are 5 times more likely to be distracted at work and 46% spend 3 hours or more a week dealing with financial issues.

Recognizing that financial stress impacts employee well-being, companies are integrating financial wellness programs into their group benefits offerings. These programs provide education, tools, and resources to help employees manage their finances more effectively. Services may include budgeting advice, debt management support, retirement planning, and even access to financial advisors.

Offering financial wellness support has become particularly relevant in light of rising living costs and economic uncertainty. Employers that provide financial literacy tools can improve employee satisfaction and reduce financial stress, which can lead to better performance and retention.

5. Support for Family Care and Parental Leave

As the Canadian workforce becomes more diverse, family care and parental leave benefits are gaining prominence. Employers are enhancing coverage for family-related needs, including parental leave top-ups, eldercare support, and childcare subsidies. This shift reflects the growing recognition that employees need support in balancing their work and family responsibilities.

Providing family-friendly benefits not only aids in attracting and retaining talent but also fosters a more inclusive workplace culture. Employees are increasingly seeking out organizations that prioritize their personal well-being and family life alongside professional development.

The landscape of employee group benefits in Canada is rapidly evolving, with a growing emphasis on personalization, mental health, technology, financial wellness, and family support. Canadian employers that embrace these trends will be better equipped to attract and retain talent, improve employee satisfaction, and foster a healthy, productive workforce.

Staying up to date with these trends is crucial for creating competitive benefits packages that meet the diverse needs of today’s employees. By offering flexible, holistic benefits, employers can enhance the well-being of their teams and position themselves as leaders in the ever-changing business environment.

Want to know how your benefits stack up? Reach out for a complimentary consultation today.