Such concerns are bound to cause friction as never-marrieds, divorced people and childless couples enter the workforce in increasing numbers. By 2010, the number of childless couples in the United States is expected to increase by 50 percent. After 2005, single and married couple households with no children are expected to become the most common types of households in the country, according to the Census Bureau. So we have to start thinking about this stuff. Some Pittsburgh firms have already tackled the issue.
People can pick their options based on their own individual circumstances.
This year CNG added investment counseling to the mix of options. Creative perks for single and childless workers might include financial assistance on house downpayments, subsidies to purchase home computers, group discounts on home and auto insurance, or on-site dry cleaning and concierge services at the workplace, said Geri Recht, a benefits consultant for Towers Perrin. Concierges like those in USX Tower, CNG Tower and the Koppers Building order theater tickets, book restaurant reservations, wrap gifts and coordinate events for busy employees. The cost of the concierge service is split between the building owner and the tenants, said MaryLyn McGinn, executive vice president for The Galbreath Co., which manages USX Tower and CNG Tower. Many companies offer discounts on health club memberships, she said.