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WHY CO-WORKING CONTINUES TO THRIVE At the forefront of impact innovation since 1999, Allia explores the relevance of the flexible workspace through its Future Business Centres
F rom the effects of lockdown to major co-working companies filing for bankruptcy, there have been multiple column inches written about the future of the workspace over the past few years. We know the shape of office working has radically changed – with most businesses adopting some form of hybrid work style to accommodate employees’ changing needs. But, many people were enjoying flexible ways of working long before it became a common source of debate, preferring a hyper-local environment to network and engage with fellow entrepreneurs. WHY CO-WORKING? If you’re a solo business founder or are trying to get a fledgling venture off the ground, having a five-day office week was never going to make sense financially. Many founders and entrepreneurs have chosen to work from home, a friendly cafe, the train – and use local co-working spaces – to suit their travel, client’s needs or simply for a change of scenery. But as larger companies are now finding, with teams becoming increasingly remote, co-working facilities can bring staff together and encourage collaboration – meaning there doesn’t have to be a loss of company culture and community spirit. AWARD-WINNING SPACE Allia Future Business Centres are all about spaces with a difference; it helps small businesses, start-ups and enterprises to grow through free support and flexible workspace. Its co-workers at the Guildhall centre in the heart of Cambridge enjoy the benefits of a range of packages: from a drop-in day pass to a dedicated desk, while being surrounded by organisations focused on positive change. Not to mention free coffee, social events and networking! One of its current co-workers, Rachel Extance – owner of The Story Cave which delivers business writing training and website copywriting services – has been co- working at the Guildhall Future Business Centre since last summer. “It’s great being in the city centre with everything on your doorstep,” Rachel notes. “The co-working area is spacious and light. I hire one of the meeting rooms for my workshops, and Allia makes running events here really smooth. The other tenants are
NIP OUT Allia’s central Guildhall centre has a gorgeous view of the historic market square and is located close to all the essential shops and cafes for a lunchtime trip out
friendly, plus there are regular events where you can network and learn from others.” James Rixon, director of Rixon Architecture and new, not-for-profit cooperative Cambridge Retrofit Hub – which helps people make their homes more comfortable and energy efficient – recently chose co-working at Allia’s Guildhall spot. James says: “I’ve recently moved to the area and wanted a space in the city centre. I like being close to the shops and services, as well as the buzz of the market. Allia has been very supportive of my business and its changing needs as it grows.”
Find out more about the range of co-working options at Allia’s Future Business Centre in the Guildhall and visit for a tour. Email hello@futurebusinesscentre.co.uk , follow @WeAreAllia or visit their website at f uturebusinesscentre.co.uk
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK APRIL 2024 47
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