Shared work places '˜best for start-ups to thrive'

MOST Scottish business owners and senior managers believe sharing a working environment with other firms is the best way for start-ups to thrive, according to research by workspace provider Regus.

Picture: TSPL

The survey found that 71 per cent of those questioned see co-working as the ideal environment for fledgling businesses.

The most popular advantage identified was being far more cost-effective than a fixed office, flagged by 82 per cent, while 75 per cent highlighted the opportunity co-working offers to meet like-minded professionals from different firms.

Additionally, 68 per cent said co-working provides more inspiration than a ­traditional office setting, while the advantage with the lowest percentage at 56 per cent was more stimulus to keep skills fresh.

Richard Morris, UK chief executive at Regus, said: “Meeting other entrepreneurs is critical to creating lasting business relationships and expanding your business.

“Co-working is a great way to expand your network of professional contacts, access invaluable advice and inspiration and raise the profile of your business.

“However, businesses still require privacy, particularly when formal meeting space for important client meetings is needed.

“While co-working spaces bring many benefits, meeting­-room options are also essential.”

Scottish workspaces offering co-working include tech incubator CodeBase in Edin­burgh, which enables firms to sit with a “diverse range of developers and ­ entrepreneurs in a friendly open space” and encouraging business-led peer ­support.