US streaming technology firm Roku has invested in a new operation in Cardiff with the capacity to create 126 jobs. In a significant inward investment boost for the city and wider Cardiff Capital Region, the company has taken nearly 26,000 sq ft of space at the Fusion Point One office scheme in the centre of the city.
Roku, whose new space which has been fitted out and includes lab facilities, is the first tenant at the building since a multi-million-pound refurbishment by is owner Fidelity Real Estate Fund (a fund operated by Fidelity International). The rental agreement and term of the lease have not been disclosed.
There is strong interest in the remaining space in the 65,000 sq ft grade A office building with two and half floors to let with space from 6,000 sq ft to nearly 38,000 sq ft. Fletcher Morgan acted for Fidelity on the letting deal with JLL acting for Roku.
The California-based firm, which has other UK operations, manufactures a variety of TV streaming devices that allow customers to access their favourite entertainment on their televisions. The company also has the only operating system that was purpose-built for TV, Roku OS.
Ewan Montgomery, portfolio manager with Fidelity, said: "The Fidelity UK Real Estate Fund has a strategy to wherever possible create the most efficient and sustainable workspaces by investing in the property it holds.
“Fusion Point One in Cardiff is a comprehensive refurbishment project where we have invested significantly, providing enhanced sustainability credentials as well as superior cycle, shower and changing facilities. The extensive amenity provision we have provided has been very well received and we are very proud of what we have created. We are delighted to welcome Roku as our first tenant to this project and we are talking to a number of other potential occupiers for the remaining floors.”
Rhydian Morris, director of JLL’s Cardiff office, said: Roku considered several properties for their new Cardiff office with Fusion Point standing out due to the proximity to the central railway station and the very large, efficient and uninterrupted floor plates providing the maximum flexibility for Roku’s occupational fit-out. The large external break-out space offering outside seating and table tennis facilities is a unique feature for a city centre office building, which will certainly be appreciated by Roku’s staff.
John James of Fletcher Morgan, said: “Roku has signed up to one of the highest quality office buildings currently available in Cardiff, with its exceptional green credentials and facilities, central location and within a short distance to the train station, shops and restaurants."
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