Boost for Scotland's space race as satellite firm expands Glasgow base in 'landmark' deal
Spire Global UK has agreed a pre-let deal for a nanosatellite manufacturing site at Glasgow’s Skypark, which is home to more than 50 businesses and a workforce of almost 4,000 people.
Skypark, which is owned by investment manager Federated Hermes, has seen Spire Global UK rapidly expand its presence at the site in just four years.
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Hide AdThe pre-let deal will see the company move from 11,200 square feet of space to a new purpose-built office and manufacturing facility totalling almost 30,000 sq ft on a ten-year lease.
Spire Global collects data from space to monitor aviation, maritime and weather patterns across the world. The new site will comprise offices and an “upsized” nanosatellite manufacturing and test facility.
The additional space will enable the firm to “significantly” grow its workforce in all areas of the business, creating high value jobs in the Glasgow area over the coming years, supported by Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government funding.
Spire Global’s head of global communications, James Pearson, said: “Scotland has become a vital part of Spire’s European growth, as Glasgow has produced more satellites than any other city in Europe, including over 100 launched from Spire.
“New funding will enable Spire to establish a stronghold in the UK and continue to design, build, test, and integrate satellites entirely within one building in Skypark, Glasgow. Our aim is to offer the most effective weather forecast in the world and to make Scotland a leading region in the European space sector.”
Stephen Ellis, senior investment manager at the international business of Federated Hermes, said: “Skypark continues to attract high-quality and diverse names that are looking to expand, and this is further testament to the exceptional quality of Skypark’s office space which continues to develop as one of Scotland’s leading business locations.
“With ongoing improvement works, such as the recent Platinum Certification by CyclingScore on its cycling facility, Skypark has a unique offering that will continue to meet the needs of its occupiers in the years to come.”
Skypark’s strategic lettings advisor, Angela Higgins of Resonance Capital, added: “Spire Global’s decision to grow a multi-functioning premises here in just four years is a real success story for Scotland, the UK and a major endorsement in our accessible location.
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Hide Ad“With a workforce of over one million, and the second highest number of higher education students outside of London, we are proud that the city and Skypark will be part of Spire Global’s success as a leading light in the European space industry.”
Spire Global was advised by SL Property Consultants while Ryden advised Skypark on the deal.
Skypark is described as one of Scotland’s “biggest and most vibrant business destinations” comprising six buildings totalling 560,000 sq ft and a workforce of almost 4,000 people. It is currently home to more than 50 businesses.
Facilities include 375 bike parking spaces, e-bike charging points, lockers, showers and changing facilities, as well as a dedicated cycle repair space.
