Celebrating & Promoting A Sustainable Future 22 Apr 2024 2:35 AM (11 months ago)
As we celebrate Earth Day, Wrkspace is proud to reaffirm our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. With six business centers located in Preston and Bolton – Old Docks House, The Watermark, No 3 Fulwood, Derby House, Hamill House, and St Peters House – we recognize the importance of creating a sustainable environment in the workplace.
In recent years, the global community has witnessed a growing recognition of the importance of sustainability in business practices. As concerns about climate change continue to escalate, companies around the world are increasingly adopting sustainable initiatives to minimize their impact on the planet. At Wrkspace, we understand the urgency of this issue and have been dedicated to incorporating sustainable practices into our operations for several years.
The concept of sustainability encompasses various aspects, including environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability. As businesses strive to achieve sustainability, the focus often revolves around reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and promoting eco-friendly practices. Over the past few years, Wrkspace has embraced this ethos, recognizing that our actions today have a profound impact on the world we leave for future generations.
One of the key initiatives in our sustainability journey has been the implementation of energy-efficient practices across all our business centers. LED lighting, motion sensors, and smart HVAC systems are just some of the measures we’ve adopted to reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions. Additionally, we have invested in renewable energy sources such as solar panels, with installations at several of our centers, including the No 3 Fulwood center in Preston.
In addition to energy efficiency, Wrkspace is committed to promoting sustainable transportation options for our clients and employees. Encouraging cycling, walking, and the use of public transportation not only reduces carbon emissions but also promotes healthier and more active lifestyles. Furthermore, we have introduced electric vehicle charging stations at select locations, supporting the transition to low-emission transportation alternatives.
Waste reduction and recycling initiatives also play a crucial role in our sustainability strategy. By minimizing single-use plastics, implementing recycling programs, and encouraging responsible waste management practices, Wrkspace aims to minimize its environmental impact and promote a circular economy.
Sustainability is at the heart of Wrkspace’s mission and values. By embracing eco-friendly practices, investing in renewable energy, and striving for Net Zero, we are committed to making a positive impact on the planet while providing exceptional workspace solutions for our clients. Join us in our journey towards a more sustainable future.
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The Future of Preston City Centre 28 Feb 2023 1:40 AM (2 years ago)
Following our exciting announcement about our tenancy at Amounderness House, we thought we would recap the plans announced by Preston City Council which will ‘breath fresh air’ into our historic City.
After a £200m investment and £24.98m awarded by the government from their ‘Towns Fund’ in 2021, Preston City Council announced their Harris Quarter focused transformational programme ensuring the regeneration of vital heritage assets alongside additional infrastructure. Concentrating on the Harris Quarter will allow the council to change the perceptions of Preston by attracting residents, workers, and investors. The programme will focus on 9 projects, which have all been carefully selected as vital improvements to the city.
Harris Your Place
Founded in 1893, The Harris Museum and Art Gallery is getting a well-deserved to revamp. This £16m project was put into action to restore and reimagine the Harris for 21st-century audiences. The new design is set to be ‘consistently fresh and responsive’. A first look at the possible new ground floor shows that we have no doubt this place will look the absolute business when it’s completed and set to open in 2024.
Aminate
£40 Million. 8 Screen Cinema. 16-lane bowling alley. 5 restaurants and a 164-space car park. This 168,000 sq ft leisure complex has had chins wagging since it was announced. The construction has just started and café bar chain Lounges have just signed a 15-year lease. It’s safe to say this incredible development on Preston’s former market site in the heart of Harris Quarter will increase jobs, visitors and footfall in the area.
Preston Youth Zone
This exciting addition to the Harris Quarter is a state-of-the-art facility for anyone aged 8-19. Providing social, sporting and artistic spaces for things such as boozing, football, climbing, creative arts, drama and even employment training. For just 50p a visit or a £5 annual pass, this space will take the important steps to help support the young people of Preston for a price everyone can afford. It will even have a café serving hot, nutrition-packed meals for no more than £1 each.
CEAIG Hub
A place dedicated to the Creation of Careers, Employment, Information, Advice and Guidance (or CEAIG, which is definitely less of a tongue twister). Not much is known about this development however we do know that it will also be in the Harris Quarter and will act as a support hub for skills and provide career advice services.
Health and Wellbeing Capacity Building
Again, not much is known about this building other than its location in the Harris Quarter. The council has emphasised the need for plans to develop Preston’s own health and wellbeing strategy. Likely to open in 2025 or 2026, this will provide much-needed support to those who need it most.
Animation of Public Spaces
Designed to coordinate events in new and existing public places in the Harris Quarter, this fund will bring together new temporary event space, artwork and improvements to public realm infrastructure to boost visitor activity. The project also funds provisions of equipment for holding such events which can be at multiple sites around the city.
Cultural Capacity Building
Build local skills, and create the capacity to support the aims of Preston City Council’s 12-year strategy. This building will house those responsible for these brilliant projects and allow them to be completed to the highest standard possible, as well as any plans created for the council’s 12-year cultural strategy.
Illuminate and Integrate
Delivering the pedestrianisation and cycleway infrastructure, as well as improving street lighting, is the cherry on top for the rest of the projects, ensuring the centre is as accessible as possible for anyone wishing to visit.
Amounderness House
Last but not least, the Renewal of Harris Quarter Assets. Amounderness House (former courthouse and police station) has been left empty for several years. It was announced by Preston City Council that the building will receive a £7.4m transformation into a state-of-the-art business hub with three floors of office space, co-working and hot-desking. This whopping 23,800 sq ft space is in the heart of the Harris Quarter and is thought to bring jobs, footfall, and visitors into Preston City Centre.
W_rkspace was proudly chosen as the preferred tenants of the space, and we are incredibly excited to work with both Preston City Council and Maple Grove Developments to restore this incredible building into an office space due to be completed in late 2025.
Our Managing Director Rizwan Seth said “W_rkspace brings its own unique brand of flexible working solutions to the heart of the city. Offering outstanding opportunities for locally established companies, alongside fantastic facilities to help start-up businesses looking to achieve first steps of their business journey.”
Counsellor David Barrow (Cabinet Member for Planning and Regulation) said “It will be wonderful to see new life breathed into a heritage property that has such a rich history and impact on the city centre over the years.” Click here to find out more about the plans for Amounderness House.
Watch this space as we keep you updated with our future plans as well as any other developments in the works.
Can’t wait until 2025? We have offices available to move in now at Old Dock’s House (Watery Lane), The Watermark (Ribbleton Lane), No3 Fulwood (Caxton Road) and at our Bolton centres Hamill House (Chorley New Road) and St Peter’s House (Silverwell Street).
Call: 0333 344 8005
Email: newenquiries@wrkspace.co.uk
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Why You Should Have an Office Space in 2023 21 Feb 2023 1:11 AM (2 years ago)
According to a global survey by Adecco, 50% of employers said they would not hire permanent remote workers. 75% of employees have said that their preferred way to work is a mix of office-based and remote working. So, what does this mean?
Well, it shows that employers and employees value being in the office. But why? We’ve put together a few reasons as to why office space is more advantageous than you may think.
Keeping Things Separate
Having an office provides a clear place for you to work, which employees can physically leave at the end of the day. This means that they can leave their ‘work at the door’ and mentally switch off after they have returned home.
Connecting People
Whether it be at your adjacent desks, in the kitchen or in one of our perfectly-placed breakout spaces, offices connect people. Being able to discuss ideas, brainstorm or just check in with each-other face to face, connecting with colleagues creates a stronger company culture.
Productivity
People can be productive from anywhere, there is no point in disagreeing with the advancement in technology and communication channels since Covid has arisen. 13% of employees said they felt more productive when they worked from home, but it’s not true for everyone. The ability to access information quickly and easily, plus the resources around them (including the people) mean that many people find the office more productive than working at home.
Onboarding
Those who started new jobs during the Covid lockdown will agree with us, new hires can struggle to understand new technology, terminology and the way their new company works. However, there are significant advantages to conducting the onboarding process in person. New hires can ask questions, absorb necessary information and get a better feel for the companies culture in a more efficient and successful way.
If you are ready to take the plunge to come back to office work, or are ready to dive into it for the first time, we are here to make it as easy as possible. Or, if you are still unsure, why not try out our co-working to see whether we are the right fit for your company. Call us on 0333 344 8005 or email us at newenquiries@wrkspace.co.uk to find out more.
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How can W_rkspace help your business? 7 Feb 2023 2:06 AM (2 years ago)
Have you been scratching your head wondering which of our office solutions would work best for you? Whether you’re just starting out as a new business, a thriving SME or a growing enterprise, we have a solution which can help your business succeed.
Virtual Offices
Just think: You’ve just started your business and need somewhere to register your address. Our virtual offices are just the thing for you. They allow you to register your company at one of our professional and prestigious addresses without paying the premium of an office space. We have options for letter and parcel handling, and even a virtual receptionist (where one of our receptionists answers your phones for you).
Co-working
So, your business has started pick up the pace you need a space away from your home to get business done. The number of people choosing to use co-working spaces has shot up in recent years, and there is no wonder why. Co-working is a flexible and affordable way to work, which can be scaled up or down as needed. We offer our co-working spaces on a daily or monthly basis, allowing you to pick which works best for you!
Room Hire
Entertain clients, make important decisions, and discuss ideas. From a 4-person meeting room to a 60-person conference room, we have a space for you. We will even provide refreshments if you ask us to! Our private boardrooms include Wi-Fi and HD screens, allowing you to video conference with ease.
Serviced Offices
Business is booming and now you’re in need of a permanent office. Serviced offices are our bread and butter. Across 5 sites in Preston and Bolton, our offices are fully furnished, fully serviced and ready to move in.
These sought-after offices are all inclusive of utilities, facilities, maintenance, building insurance, cleaning, parking, meeting room hire and more! With a dedicated on-site customer service team, we will make sure that you are looked after and welcomed into the W_rkspace community.
Call us on 0333 344 8005 or email us at newenquiries@wrkspace.co.uk to start your W_rkspace journey.
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Could we be heading for a four-day work-week? 24 Jan 2023 1:10 AM (2 years ago)
Researchers around the globe have found that a 4-day workweek could be the way forward. We are inclined to agree.
The History of Weekends
The typical Saturday-Sunday 48-hour weekend has only been around since the 1930s. Originally, Sundays were the only day off given due to it being a Day of Rest. However, in the late 19th century, workers in the North of England mutually agreed to work harder between Tuesday and Saturday morning so they could have Saturday afternoon and Monday off. This was agreed, in return of increased productivity. Fortunately for us, this worked well and there were clear signs of a more enthusiastic workforce. Henry Ford then decided to give his staff Saturdays and Sundays off, which is now the work week we all know today.
The Pandemic
As we are all aware by now, the pandemic has shifted many things. One of them is the way we work. Hybrid and flexible working are now normal, things that some people could only dream of before Covid happened. And now, people are trying to make the 4-day week normal too.
How it would work
According to studies, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are office days. Offices are shown to be used 23% more on these days than Mondays and Fridays. So, by having Fridays off, employees would still be in the office for the same amount of time. If anything, they may come into the office more by choosing to spend all four days they work in the office. Researchers are saying that by giving their employees an extra day off every week and paying them the same amount, employers could reap the rewards.
The Benefits
• Trials have taken place around the world to see whether the 4-day working week could be beneficial
• Studies have seen an improvement in the mental health of workers, and a lower likelihood of burnout
• Productiveness increased across the board as employees were seen to get just as much work done, due to having more energy and enthusiasm
• Improved work-life balance for employees
• Lower stress levels
The Disadvantages
We would love to say there are no disadvantages to a four-day work week, however we have to be realistic.
• The excitement might wear off – The luxury of having an extra day at the weekend may become an entitlement to some, and their productivity may not be as high as a result.
• Problems for employers – Some jobs cannot be squeezed into four days rather than five. This makes it difficult for employers, as it might not be a possibility for certain lines of work.
Luckily, no matter how many days you work, W_rkspace will have an office solution for you. Give us a call on 0333 344 8005 or email us at newenquiries@wrkspace.co.uk to find out more.
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How will you improve your business in 2023? 17 Jan 2023 1:35 AM (2 years ago)
We all know that 2022 was a hard year for businesses. So, how can we turn it around in 2023? Here are our top tips to help boost your business in the next 365 days…
Ask yourself: “What do I want my business to achieve?”
Make sure you have clear, achievable goals for your company this year. Once you have decided on your goals, break them down into smaller targets which you can reach every month to stay on track.
Build a team you can trust and depend upon
Ensure your employees are trained well and set clear expectations for them. Build a positive work environment that your team feel comfortable in, which will therefore encourage your staff to be creative and excel. Provide regular feedback so your team know how to keep on improving and reward them for their hard work. By creating a strong team, you can delegate tasks with the confidence that they will be completed to a high standard which in turn means you have more time to focus on other parts of the business.
Track your expenses
Keeping tabs on your financial status is as crucial as ever at the moment and making sure you stay within your budget can make all the difference. Compare your budgeted and actual expenditure, if you are consistently over budget in certain areas, you may need to look at different ways to cut back.
Look for ways to increase revenue
Whether it be raising prices, offering new services, or expanding your business into new markets, your increased profits can be placed back into your company and can be used for more office space, more advertising or more staff.
Talk to your customers
Creating relationships with clients can be one of the most beneficial things for your business. You can find out more about your competitors, any gaps in the market and incredibly useful feedback. Keeping up with customer trends will put you on the right track to smashing your business goals.
Increase your online presence
Developing an official website or creating engaging social media posts will help increase your online presence. This is crucial for increasing brand awareness and attracting new customers.
Whatever your goals are, let W_rkspace help you achieve them. We have an office solution that works for you, whether you are a brand-new start up or a large SME, let us make your 2023 easier.
Call us on 0333 344 8005 or email us at newenquiries@wrkspace.co.uk
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Goodbye 2022, Hello 2023 12 Dec 2022 7:40 AM (2 years ago)
2022 has certainly been an eventful year
We have lost a Queen, gained a King and had three Prime Ministers in Downing Street. We’re not going to forget it anytime soon. It has been a struggle for many businesses but 2023 is a new year with a new outcome.
The past year saw many problems
Inflation, war in Ukraine and the repercussions of Covid-19, the rise of terrorism in Afghanistan, the threat of Nuclear War. The list is seemingly endless. However, there were some good things to come out of 2022.
However, there were some good things to come out of 2022
Mini forests are springing up around the UK, more than 25 countries banded together to make deforestation pledges, a wild bison was born in the UK for the first time in thousands of years and electric cars have seen a drop in prices. Businesses have learnt to be resilient and adapt, and it is more important than ever to be careful with our money.
Wrkspace in 2022
In the past year, we opened two new sites. No3 Fulwood in Preston and St Peter’s House in Bolton. Both of these still have some availability (for more info email newenquiries@wrkspace.co.uk). We have supported several charities like Macmillan Cancer Support and The Foxton Centre and we have worked with our clients to ensure we are offering the best service possible.
Hello, 2023
There’s so much to look forward to next year!
- The coronation of King Charles III will result in an extra bank holiday (which means there a THREE bank holidays in one month) this means there will be a grand total of 11 bank holidays next year.
- The recession is due to end in summer of next year
- House prices are expected to fall by at least 10%
- The Six Nations in February will provide great entertainment
- The FA Cup Final will be on the 3rd June
So, although it may seem bleak at the moment, remember Christmas is around the corner and 2023 is looking a lot more promising.
The New Year provides a new start for your company. How will you use it?
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The Cost of Living Crisis 5 Dec 2022 1:36 AM (2 years ago)
What is the cost-of-living crisis?
In the simplest terms: It is the increase in the cost of everyday items and services whilst wages remain the same. People have less money to spend on non-essential items, which in turn can impact businesses severely.
Almost 72% of business owners are concerned that the current cost of living crisis will negatively impact their company. Even more shockingly, 23% of leaders predict their business may not survive the financial year if prices continue to rise at this rate. 67% believe they will lose clientele as their services will be bought less often.
Why is the cost-of-living crisis happening?
• Costs have been rising since countries have reopened their economies from Covid-19 lockdowns.
• Gas prices have risen due to increased demand from Asia and outages in production due to the conflict in Ukraine. This is a huge problem as nearly 80% of households in England are heated by gas and a third of electricity is generated in gas power stations.
• Disruption of supply chains has also caused prices to increase. Shutdowns due to the pandemic in Asia have caused a shortage in semiconductors (which is an important component in common consumer goods).
• Global shipping costs have also risen as shipping firms reduced capacity due to the pandemic
• Many international companies have ceased trading in Russia due to economic sanctions or reputational risk.
• Although the UK only imports around 13% of its fuel from Russia, it is still susceptible to any disruption throughout the EU. Due to the integration of the UK and EU’s energy markets, their prices move together.
Unfortunately, incomes aren’t raising as quickly as prices are. Wage growth in the last year has not been sufficient to keep pace with inflation. Pay is only forecast to rise by 5.8% compared to inflation of around 10%.
What can be done to help your business?
• Suppliers – Reviewing suppliers can be a good first step to start cutting costs. Do your research on potential providers and gather some quotes. Domestic supplies may be more resilient and reliable against geopolitical events than their global competitors.
• Supporting Employees – If you have staff, they are more than likely feeling the impact of the rising cost of living. If the cost of increased wages is too much for your organization, consider other ways your business can reduce the burden on staff. For example, you can sign up for a staff discount scheme which can give employees money off shopping and meals out.
• Consumers – Whilst everyone is trying to cut back on spending, so are your customers. Think about how you can help customers while ensuring they maintain their business with you. You could introduce loyalty discount schemes, cashback rewards or payment instalments to help spread the cost of buying your product.
• Use W_rkspace!
How can we help?
It may seem like now would be a terrible time to move into an office or change your work location. However, our office solutions can help you save money in the long run.
• Office Space – For as little as £150 per desk, our private offices have all of your bills included in your monthly rental, meaning that whether you are a tech whiz or a digital nomad, we will take care of the water, electricity and heating at no extra cost!
• Fuel – Instead of travelling into Manchester every day, our business hubs are local, meaning you can avoid the traffic and the fuel prices.
• Co-working – From just £14.99 a day, if working from home isn’t for you, our centres offer you an excellent place for you to get your head down. Top quality amenities, comfy chairs and plenty of plug sockets, we’ve got all the gear to make sure you have a good day!
Want to learn more?
Call us on 0333 344 8005 or email us at newenquires@wrkspace.co.uk
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Old Dock’s House: A History 10 Nov 2022 1:27 AM (2 years ago)
When we purchased Old Dock’s House back in 2017, we were keen to restore the iconic building back to its former glory. The building is one of Preston’s signature buildings, known for its art-deco design and iconic clock tower.
Built in 1935, it was originally designed as administrative headquarters to the Port of Preston. It continued to stay open until 1981 when the dock closed, only briefly closing during World War II when it was taken over by the military when it was used as a marshaling post for the Normandy landings. A succession of various businesses owned the building until we acquired it almost 30 years later.
An opening ceremony of the building took place on the 12th July 1936, by Sir Arthur Watson. It had been postponed from January 23rd after the death of King George VI, where visitors commented on its convenient layout and the large rooms encouraged vast amounts of natural light.
Almost 80 years after it had been opened, we set about to restore Old Dock’s House. There had been flooding and some extensive fire damage, but that didn’t stop us reinstating the art-deco style interior back into this iconic building
Our aim for this project was to ensure that all restorations looked as natural as possible, to blend seamlessly into the original design. We used high-quality materials sourced from local suppliers, keeping business as local as possible. We have renovated the kitchen and co-working space and break out space to make sure that you can enjoy modern ways of working in this classic building.
Interested? We have one of our most sought-after offices available from January 2023.
Call us on 033 344 8004 for a tour or email us at newenquiries@wrkspace.co.uk
We look forward to hearing from you!
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Don’t travel to Manchester – Set up your office in Bolton 25 Oct 2022 3:30 AM (2 years ago)
Picture it: Traffic is awful, there are train strikes, and you don’t know how you are going to get to Manchester before 9:00. Well, we have the answer for you! Our brand new St Peter’s site provides all of the benefits of a Manchester office closer to home. Not that we’re biased or anything, but having an office in Bolton might solve a lot more issues than you realise.
The Benefits of Working from Bolton
- Affordability
Now, with the Cost of Living Crisis, everything is more expensive. However, an office in Bolton is undoubtedly cheaper than one of the same top quality in Manchester. On top of that, you don’t have to worry about travelling into the city every day, saving on travel costs as well!
- Work-life balance
Think about it – the closer you are the home; the quicker it will be to get home after a long day at the office. Shorter travel times will mean that you can spend more time with the people you love rather than commuting.
- Community
Working in a town rather than a city provides you with a sense of community you may not get in Manchester. It’s a lot easier to see a friendly face in a town rather than a city, and it is a lot easier to build up a good reputation with the locals, making you the go-to business in your field.
- Access
We’re proud to say that if you ever need transport links into Manchester, we’re in the perfect spot. Both Bolton’s Bus and Train station, with direct services to Manchester and London, are less than a 10-minute walk away. St Peter’s House also has excellent links to major road networks such as the M61 and A666. This means that you can get the best of both worlds, easy access to the city with all of the advantages of Bolton.
- Noise
Cities are known for their hustle and bustle, but St Peter’s is located just off Bolton’s town centre, meaning you are only a few minutes away from the heart of Bolton, but still quiet enough to let you work in peace.
So, the bottom line is we have quality serviced office space right here waiting for you, with all the same amenities such as meeting rooms with top-of-the-line video conferencing and modern and sleek co-working space. If you’re interested, email us at newenquiries@wrkspace.co.uk or call us on 0333 344 8005. We cannot wait to hear from you!
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