A Northern Ireland flexible workspace provider has announced plans to open 100 locations across London over the next five years.
Hubflow, which operates three sites across Belfast, said the move comes after successful launch of its first serviced office in the capital in the former Rolls Royce building near Victoria Station. It has already agreed terms on other locations at Mayfair, Bank, Paddington and Waterloo, and will look for other sites located close to major transport hubs and “popular hospitality outlets”.
As well as focusing on London, it said it also has its sights set on bringing Hubflow to New York, Singapore, Tokyo, San Fancisco and Los Angeles, as well as adding additional locations in Belfast, Edinburgh and Dublin.
The business is run by digital project manager Declan Mellan and Gary McCausland, a former television presenter and property developer. It was formed in spring 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic in an effort to provide flexible serviced office space for small-to-medium-sized companies to accommodate between 25 and 125 employees.
Mr McCausland said there is growing demand from businesses for a fixed monthly invoice and no upfront capital costs.
“They want the flexibility of shorter term commitments instead of draconian long term leases whilst also being able to stay as long as they require,” he said. “Hubflow offers this and more, our commitment is to deliver exceptional bespoke office space ensuring our clients have everything they need to thrive and grow.”
Despite a return to normal working conditions and suggestions from some business leaders, such as business body The CBI, that owners want workers back in the office full time, he said a more flexible working model will prevail.
“The way we work has changed forever and it is clear there’s no going back to the past,” Hubflow chief executive Gary McCausland said. “New technology, digital transformation and an increased focus on sustainability has shown new and established businesses that more flexible working arrangements is a catalyst for growth and positive change, freeing mindsets and the shackles of years gone by - it’s why 97% of our members have confirmed they’re more positive, productive and motivated since joining Hubflow.”
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