Great Portland Estates, a FTSE 250 property firm, has hired external lawyers to investigate whistleblower claims about its company culture, according to a report by The Telegraph. The investigation follows concerns raised by a former employee of the West End-based landlord.
Executives at Great Portland Estates informed staff of the probe during a company-wide call last Friday amid fears that the whistleblower might go public. The law firm's findings are expected within weeks and will be reviewed by non-executive board members to determine any necessary actions. CEO Toby Courtauld stated he did not recognize the allegations but emphasized the company's culture of mutual respect.
In its May annual report, Great Portland Estates noted that 86% of employees felt comfortable at work, up from 79% in early 2024. Its overall favourability rating also rose from 74% to 78% over the same period. The company, which owns a 2.9bn property portfolio including prime London locations like Regent Street and Piccadilly, has seen its value rise by 150m this year due to strong office demand.
Whistleblowing cases in the UK have surged, with employment tribunal claims increasing by 92% between 2015 and 2023, partly driven by high-profile scandals. Earlier this year, Foxtons faced allegations of workplace misconduct, prompting the estate agent to reinforce its anti-harassment policies.
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