July 11, 2025
“Revenge Quitting” Goes Mainstream, Says New Survey
A rising wave of workplace exits is turning heads, and it’s not the quiet quitting trend we’ve heard so much about. According to new research from Reed.co.uk, 15% of workers have “revenge quit,” resigning suddenly, without notice, often as a direct response to mistreatment or dissatisfaction at work.
The survey of more than 2,000 UK employees revealed that one in seven has chosen to walk out in protest, sometimes mid-shift, and occasionally in dramatic fashion. From deleting key files to leaving tasks unfinished or airing grievances publicly online, these exits are more than just resignations—they’re statements.
What’s driving this behaviour? The top reasons cited include:
- Poor management (36%)
- Toxic workplace culture (27%)
- Low pay (26%)
Social media is pouring fuel on the fire. Platforms like TikTok and Glassdoor have become popular outlets for frustrated employees to share their stories, vent their anger, and even go viral. Reed.co.uk notes that some workers now see public resignations as a way to reclaim power, or at least, to warn others.
Despite the drama, most workers still don’t know the term “revenge quitting”—more than half said they’d never heard of it. However, nearly 30% said they were aware of the concept and had considered it.
James Reed, CEO of Reed.co.uk, says the rise in revenge quitting reflects a deeper problem: the breakdown in communication and trust between workers and their employers. “It might feel satisfying in the moment,” he warns, “but quitting in anger rarely helps either side. It can burn bridges and harm future opportunities.”
The trend also points to a broader shift in workplace attitudes, emerging as a counter-narrative to “quiet quitting,” where employees stay on the job but mentally check out. While one disengages silently, the other leaves with a bang—and often a post.
