Business centre sees surge in new tenants

Stoke business centre BusinessLodge has reported a surge in enquiries from businesses that are opting to move out of the city centre and relocate more locally.

The flex-space provider on Victoria Road, Fenton reports that in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, more and more organisations are rethinking their model, and relocation has become a key factor in strategic decision making.

Managing director Kate Holt said: “In the early days of the coronavirus crisis, we saw a surge in budding entrepreneurs setting up their own businesses and taking advantage of our virtual office facilities.

“More recently, we’ve had lots of interest from larger businesses who are based in city centres and are now looking to relocate closer to home, in centres like BusinessLodge.”

Holt believes that there are several factors that play a key role in businesses choosing to step away from city centre office blocks and relocate more locally – with travel being top of the list.

She said: “Post-lockdown, public transport is no longer as appealing as it once was. We’ve all seen the images of packed buses and trains, where compulsory face coverings are now the norm – and quite understandably, people are reluctant to take this option unless it is absolutely avoidable.

“While driving remains an option, city centre parking can be upwards of £25 a day for those who want to use their car – which can amount to a whopping £2,500 a year.

“Times are uncertain, there is no doubt about that. Yet many businesses who are currently based in the city centre who are considering a move have their hands tied. This can be particularly difficult for organisations who have been forced to downsize their workforce over recent months.

“There is also the uncertainty of a relocation at this time and so a more flexible tenancy agreement can be extremely useful.”