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How Offsite Retreat Frequency Impacts Employee Retention and Satisfaction (Backed by Data)

  • Writer: Get Lost
    Get Lost
  • May 16
  • 3 min read

In today’s evolving workplace, where flexibility and connection are both non-negotiable, offsite retreats have moved from “nice-to-have” to “business-critical.” But the question many leaders still ask is: how often is enough?

If your team only gets together once a year, is that really enough to build lasting engagement and reduce churn? Or does a more regular cadence of retreats yield stronger long-term results?


Employees arriving at a retreat venue with smiles and casual attire, reflecting the relaxed atmosphere and positive energy of a well-planned corporate offsite.

Why Retreat Frequency Matters (More Than You Might Think)

It’s no secret that connected teams perform better. But what’s often overlooked is how retreat frequency — not just quality — plays a major role in employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention.

According to the 2025 State of Corporate Offsites Report by Emburse, high-performing companies host an average of 2.8 offsites annually, compared to 2.4 for underperforming companies. The difference may seem small, but its impact is huge:

  • 72% of employees at high-performing companies report feeling excited about offsites.

  • In contrast, only 49% of employees at underperforming companies say the same.


That enthusiasm often translates to something more valuable than a good time — employee loyalty.

Bar chart comparing the number of corporate offsite events held in 2019 vs. 2024. Data shows a decrease in companies hosting zero offsites and an increase in those holding multiple events, indicating a rising trend in offsite frequency. (Source: Emburse 2025)
Average number of offsites per year: 2019 vs. 2024 (Source: Emburse 2025)

Data That Links Offsite Retreat Frequency to Retention

Here’s what the numbers reveal:

  • 85% of employees say offsites strengthen their connection to the company and its goals (Emburse, 2025).

  • Gallup reports that 42% of turnover is preventable, often linked to disengagement — something offsites directly combat.

  • According to Quantum Workplace, 91% of employees feel more motivated and 85% feel more satisfied after a corporate retreat.

So while your weekly Zoom calls might keep projects on track, offsites are what anchor people to the bigger picture — your vision, values, and culture.


Large group of employees enjoying a scenic offsite retreat by the sea, showcasing team bonding, outdoor adventure, and boosted morale through retreat experiences.

How Often Should You Host Offsites?

There’s no universal answer, but based on trends and performance metrics, here’s a quick breakdown:

Frequency

Best For

Outcome

Quarterly (4x/yr)

Fast-growing teams, startups, hybrid orgs

Higher alignment, deeper trust, faster culture scaling

Biannual (2x/yr)

Mid-size companies, remote teams

Strong engagement rhythm, renewed focus

Annual (1x/yr)

Smaller teams or budget-conscious orgs

Still valuable, but may lose momentum

The key isn’t just frequency — it’s intentionality. A biannual retreat that’s thoughtfully designed will outperform a quarterly one that feels like an afterthought.

Signs Your Team Needs More Frequent Company Retreats

Not sure if you’re doing enough? Watch for these red flags:

  • High turnover despite competitive salaries

  • Cross-departmental disconnect

  • Employee surveys showing disengagement

  • Declining energy or innovation in meetings

  • Lack of enthusiasm around your offsite events themselves

If your team treats your one annual retreat like a checkbox — not an energizing reset — it might be time to rethink your approach.


Unengaged employees sitting in a corporate meeting, showing signs of boredom and burnout — highlighting the need for more frequent and engaging offsite retreats.

How High-Performing Teams Approach Retreat Planning

The Emburse report shows that 69% of high-performing companies have increased their offsite budgets since 2019. That’s not just to make retreats more extravagant — it’s a strategic investment in culture and retention.

These teams:

  • Integrate offsites into their annual planning cycle

  • Mix formats: strategy sessions, wellness retreats, team-bonding adventures

  • Focus on quality and rhythm — ensuring that every retreat has a purpose

In other words, they treat offsites the same way they treat product roadmaps and OKRs — as non-negotiables.


Bar chart showing changes in offsite retreat budgets since 2019 by company performance level. 69% of high-performing companies increased budgets, compared to 45% of financially stable and 40% of underperforming companies. (Source: Emburse 2025)
Offsite budget changes since 2019 (% of companies) (Source: Emburse 2025)

Final Takeaways

  • Retreats aren't just events — they’re retention tools.

  • Frequency matters: teams that gather more often build deeper alignment and stronger loyalty.

  • The data is clear: intentional, well-timed offsites lead to more satisfied, committed employees.

Need Help Planning Your Offsite Calendar?

At Get Lost, we specialize in designing high-impact offsites — from wellness retreats to leadership summits — tailored to your team’s rhythm and goals. Whether you’re planning your first retreat or refining your annual strategy, we’ll help you build something your team will actually remember (and thank you for).


 
 
 

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