Since the 1970s the prevailing logic in most c-suites in the US (and really, the rest of the Anglosphere, but especially the US) is that companies exist solely to "create" (I'd say transfer, but regardless) value for shareholders, really by any means necessary.
If they can make money letting you work from home, they will. Unfortunately most companies have long-term leases or ownership of commercial real estate, which is getting less and less valuable by the minute. The value of these obligations outweighs the value created by not having to have people work in the office. So back the workers go.
If they can make money letting you work from home, they will. Unfortunately most companies have long-term leases or ownership of commercial real estate, which is getting less and less valuable by the minute. The value of these obligations outweighs the value created by not having to have people work in the office. So back the workers go.