A study of workplace trends by the group shows that almost two-thirds of firms have or may introduce changes such as extended shut-downs halting production, more flexible working hours and cuts in paid overtime.

The research finds that 45 per cent have increased flexible working among their staff to reduce hours and respond to employees’ demands for an improved work-life balance, with a further quarter considering this.

In addition, 43 per cent of firms have cut costs by limiting the amount of paid overtime which is available, while one-third are making less use of agency staff.

John Cridland, deputy director general of the CBI, comments: ‘This has been a particularly bruising recession, but one of its most positive and striking aspects has been the commitment of many businesses and their staff to work together to try to trim costs and save jobs.’

A recent survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development discovered that 56 per cent of businesses intend to retain their staff rather than seek fresh talent.