Flexible leases help small firms beat credit crunch woes

BOLTON firms are rejecting the cost and commitment of traditional commercial leases in favour of more flexible deals, according to Evans Easyspace.

The company is fast filling available office suites at its newest centre in the town just weeks after opening.

Susan Sheffield, who manages the Manchester Road centre, said that concerns about the economy were encouraging small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups to look for alternatives to more traditional lease options.

“Our clients so far are small and start-up firms, for which our rolling two-month licence provides the right level of flexibility,” she said.

“The centre gives businesses all the advantages of modern premises and a professional image, but with no capital expenditure and complete flexibility.”

Evans, which has more than 50 centres across the UK, has invested £850,000 on renovating the fully serviced building.

Ms Sheffield said that many companies used the centres as a stepping stone, either moving on from working at home or from a lock-up, before taking on a traditional lease.

“We have take away one of the risks in setting up business and as a result our clients can fix their costs and keep their eyes firmly fixed on building their business without having to worry how changes in the economy will affect them” she added.

“Growing businesses have many things to focus on, and we make their property decisions much easier.”