As workforce expectations and economic realities shift, group retirement plans must evolve to meet the changing needs of both employers and employees. The next decade will bring new challenges and opportunities for organizations aiming to stay competitive while supporting their teams’ long-term financial well-being.
PACE Consulting is committed to helping businesses future-proof their group retirement strategies by staying ahead of emerging trends and designing flexible, responsive solutions.
Changing Workforce Demographics and Expectations
The workforce is becoming more multigenerational and diverse. Millennials and Gen Z are entering peak earning years while Baby Boomers are retiring in increasing numbers. According to Statistics Canada (2024), nearly 30% of Canada’s workforce will be over the age of 55 by 2030, amplifying the need for adaptable retirement planning.
Meanwhile, younger generations are placing greater value on financial wellness, flexible savings options, and digital tools that offer transparency and personalization. A survey by Benefits Canada (2025) found that 74% of employees under 40 prefer customizable retirement solutions over traditional one-size-fits-all plans.
A 2024 RBC Insurance study revealed that 61% of Canadians feel anxious about their retirement readiness, with 45% stating they lack confidence in their ability to maintain their standard of living after retirement. These trends highlight a growing demand for proactive, modernized retirement support from employers.
Key Trends to Watch
To stay competitive and relevant, organizations should prepare for the following shifts in the group retirement landscape:
- Financial Wellness Integration: Retirement planning will become part of broader financial wellness programs, offering tools for budgeting, debt management, and emergency savings. According to the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC), financial stress is a leading cause of reduced productivity, with 48% of Canadians reporting it affects their work performance.
- Digital-First Tools and Education: Employees are looking for on-demand access to retirement planning tools. The 2025 Sun Life Workplace Trends Report found that 68% of employees want mobile access to manage their group retirement accounts.
- Sustainable and ESG Investing Options: ESG investing is growing in popularity. According to the Responsible Investment Association (RIA) of Canada, over 77% of Canadian investors are interested in responsible investments, with younger workers more likely to favor ESG-aligned retirement portfolios.
- Portability and Flexibility: With increased job mobility and the rise of gig and contract work, portable retirement plans and flexible contribution options will be essential to meet evolving employee needs.
- Decumulation Planning: As life expectancy rises, employers will need to support employees in transitioning from saving for retirement to drawing income sustainably. The Canadian Institute of Actuaries estimates that by 2035, 1 in 4 Canadians will be over 65, increasing the importance of post-retirement income strategies.
Actionable Tips for Employers
To prepare your organization for the future of retirement planning, consider the following steps:
- Assess Current Offerings: Evaluate your current group retirement plan for flexibility, relevance, and employee engagement. Ensure it offers tools employees actually use and value.
- Survey Employees: Conduct regular pulse checks or annual surveys to understand what different employee groups want in a retirement solution.
- Incorporate Financial Education: Host webinars, workshops, or one-on-one sessions on retirement readiness and financial literacy. Education builds confidence and improves plan utilization.
- Offer Investment Choice: Provide a variety of investment options, including ESG-focused funds, target-date funds, and low-fee portfolios to suit different risk appetites and values.
- Partner with Adaptive Providers: Work with consultants and providers who offer forward-thinking solutions, user-friendly platforms, personalized advice, and flexible plans.
PACE’s Commitment to the Future
PACE Consulting helps organizations design group retirement plans that are not only competitive today but also resilient for tomorrow. Our solutions include employee education, plan benchmarking, decumulation support, and access to digital tools that increase transparency and engagement.
Whether you're updating an existing plan or building a new one, we help you align retirement benefits with the evolving needs of your workforce.