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At FigFlex, we don’t just keep up with industry trends – we drive them. Recently, our Building Manager at Friar’s House, Charlotte, attended a Birmingham FLEXSA roundtable event, where peers from the flexible workspace industry gathered to discuss what’s next in the world of serviced offices.

From hybrid working trends to the importance of wellbeing and sustainability, here’s what we’ve learned and how we’re putting these insights into action to ensure FigFlex remains at the forefront of the flexible workspace revolution.

Hybrid Work: The New Normal, But More Dynamic

If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that hybrid working is here to stay. But what does that actually mean for flexible workspaces? At the FLEXSA event, the consensus was clear – businesses no longer just need a desk for their employees; they need a space that adapts as they do. Companies want more flexibility, with offices that can grow and change in line with their needs.

Charlotte’s takeaway from the event resonates with what we’ve been seeing: “It’s not just about providing a workspace, it’s about offering flexibility that grows with the business.” FigFlex already offers adaptable, all-inclusive spaces, and we’re always thinking of ways to push this further. Flexibility is the future – and we’re ready for it.

Wellbeing: The New Office Essential

The pandemic has shifted priorities, and employee wellbeing has moved to the top of the list. The time spent in the office now has to count for more than just productivity; it needs to support both mental and physical health. This was a key theme at the roundtable, and it’s something we’ve already embraced at FigFlex.

“It’s not just about beanbags and gimmicks anymore – it’s about creating a space where people can genuinely thrive.” Charlotte noted. We’ve been building environments that allow people to work in comfort, knowing that a happy, healthy workforce is a productive one. Our regular community events are proof that small touches can make a big difference in creating meaningful office experiences.

Technology: The Dealbreaker in Modern Offices

Today, no workspace can afford to fall behind when it comes to technology. Whether it’s seamless Wi-Fi, smart meeting room bookings, or digital collaboration tools, companies expect to be able to connect effortlessly. As Charlotte pointed out: “The future of workspaces is digital – if you’re not making it easy for people to connect and collaborate, you’re already behind.”

At FigFlex, we’ve already made technology integration a priority, ensuring that all of our locations are equipped with the latest tech. This isn’t just a perk anymore – it’s a necessity.

Sustainability: A Must-Have, Not a Nice-to-Have

The conversation around sustainability has evolved. Tenants are no longer just interested in stylish office designs; they want to know that their workspace aligns with their values, especially when it comes to environmental responsibility. At the roundtable, there was no question that sustainable practices are becoming a non-negotiable.

At FigFlex, we’ve taken this to heart, and our clean air mural at FigFlex Southampton is a prime example. This mural, the largest of its kind in the UK, not only adds to the aesthetic of the building but actively absorbs CO2 from the environment – a perfect fit for clients who value green initiatives. As Charlotte rightly put it: “Sustainability is essential – our mural is exactly the kind of initiative that’s resonating with clients who care about eco-friendly spaces.”

Community: The Core of Flexible Workspaces

Despite all the focus on tech and flexibility, one thing remains clear – people still crave connection. Building a sense of community within flexible workspaces can be the difference between a place people work in and a place they feel part of. Whether through networking events, informal meetups, or simply creating a friendly, collaborative environment, the sense of belonging in our spaces makes a world of difference.

Charlotte summed it up: “People don’t just want a desk, they want to be part of something. The more we can cultivate that, the better our spaces will be.” That’s why, at FigFlex, we make community-building a priority, from day to day interactions to bigger social and networking events.

FigFlex’s Regional Insights: Flexibility and Location are Everything

Our insights aren’t just theoretical; we’re seeing the trends in action across FigFlex’s network of offices. Regional locations like Coventry are thriving, with occupancy rates around 95%, as businesses increasingly opt for satellite offices in areas with affordable pricing and excellent transport links. Coventry’s lower parking costs compared to other cities are a major draw, with clients appreciating the convenience and sticking around long-term.

However, not all regions are experiencing the same success. Some remote locations face challenges due to their less central positioning, reinforcing the importance of well-connected spaces. Additionally, demand for high-quality facilities, such as gyms, event spaces, and meeting rooms, is growing, and FigFlex is fully embracing this trend, ensuring our buildings meet these evolving client expectations.

What’s Next for FigFlex? 

We’re doubling down on flexibility, wellbeing, and sustainability, while maintaining our focus on creating strong, connected communities.  Recently, we’ve expanded our Hull and Peterborough sites with the completion of two new developments, and we’re already planning to open more FigFlex centres in the new year. So, whether you’re looking for a cutting-edge workspace in Coventry, an eco-friendly Southampton office, or a hub in any of our other locations, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today so we can discuss your requirements and how we can support you.