Smokers and drinkers in serviced offices in Cardiff might be some of the people who are not working to full capacity, according to research from private health insurance company Bupa.
A study from the organisation indicated that savings of almost £3 billion could be made every year by British businesses if people adopted a healthier lifestyle.
Abuse of alcohol costs £1.8 billion every year to UK enterprises, with employee productivity lower and sickness rates higher.
Conditions related to obesity cost £490 million and health complaints caused by smoking total £61 million.
The average smoker could save £1,555 a year if they quit their habit and their extra annual income might reach £7,186 in middle age due to increased life expectancy.
Dr Peter Mace, assistant medical director at Bupa Health and Wellbeing, said employers have a part to play in encouraging healthy habits among their workforce.
"The benefits for everyone are clear," he stated.
The US state of Arizona is currently considering fining overweight citizens if they refuse to conform to a dietary regime.
