Autotrader takes 60,000 sq ft at First Street
AUTOTRADER publisher Trader Media has confirmed its move to Manchester’s Number One First Street.
It has agreed a 15-year lease on 60,000 sq ft at the Ask Developments block.
Trader Media, which stopped publishing a print edition in June, is moving 600 staff and consolidating seven offices in Salford, Warrington town centre, Chester and Newton-le-Willows.
Chief executive Trevor Mather said: “Auto Trader is making a considerable investment to ensure that the employee offering matches up to the brand ambition. With the planned amenities at First Street, and the cultural and leisure opportunities that Manchester offers, we are confident we can continue to grow the business and bring in the best UK talent.”
John Hughes, managing director of Ask Developments, said: “We are delighted to welcome Auto Trader to Number One First Street and also to kick-start the New Year with a 60,000 sq ft letting. We are also hopeful of being in a position to announce further letting news in the coming weeks.
“The strong performance and interest in Number One First Street clearly proves that the ambitious First Street development will be a key driver for Manchester in the years to come and will provide attractive opportunities for both existing and inward occupiers to the City Centre.”
Warrington-based Claremont Group Interiors has won the £4m interior design contract. Its concept includes four cars and two vans which will be craned in to the office and provide “creative and collaborative work spaces”.
The quoting rent at Number One First Street is £23.50/sq ft. Ask Developments was advised by Savills and CBRE. Dunlop Heywood and Matthews & Goodman advised Auto Trader.
