KNOWLEDGE CENTRE

Enquiries up for single workstations in the UK

officebroker.com research shows that Q1 2009 produced 78% more enquiries for single workstations than the same period in 2008, while Q2 2009 produced an increase of 28% over the same period in 2008.

Overall, for the first 7 months of 2009, single desk enquiry figures were 42% higher than those recorded in the same period in 2008.

This could point to a rise in start-up businesses and the self-employed. The recession is expected to be the most likely cause behind this surge, as employees who have been made redundant are choosing to take the opportunity to set up their own business.

According to an investigation by Barclays into the recent rise of start-ups and entrepreneurs in the UK, Steve Cooper, local business managing director at Barclays, says:

"There could be a number of reasons for the robust start-up market, including individuals made redundant opting for self-employment. We should also remember that there are always opportunities, even in more challenging times."

Adding weight to this research, online support services such as Start Up Donut have emerged as a result of the increased number of entrepreneurs, offering advice and guidance for start-ups and small businesses. James Elias, Head of Business Marketing for Google UK - which sponsors the scheme - attributes much of the rise in self-employment to the difficult economy:

"The economic conditions have led large numbers of people to consider their options - as a result, entrepreneurial activity is on the rise."

Serviced offices provide an excellent base for start-up businesses, as their short-term flexible arrangements allow an easy-in easy-out basis for small businesses. Companies can sign up for anything from one desk upwards, and can increase their office space size quickly and easily. Serviced offices avoid lengthy legal agreements which have to be drawn up with the help of a solicitor, and provide manageable, monthly costs - ideal for smaller businesses.

Read the findings in full here: Single workstation requests up 42% in 2009.