With the demand for flexible workspace solutions on the rise, it is only natural that operators are beginning to take a more blended approach to providing coworking space to consumers.
In the APAC region, we’re seeing how the lines are blurring between coworking space, executive suite, and virtual office services. Workspace operators of all types are finding ways in which to disrupt the traditional idea of the workplace, creating quirky, modern, and aesthetically pleasing workspaces that are bound to attract a wide range of clients.
Coworking in APAC vs The Rest of The World
To better understand what it is that’s making coworking so popular and unique in the region, we reached out to ‘T’ Fuad, founder of Spacemob.
First of all, ‘T’ mentioned how when looking at the differences between coworking in Asia and coworking in other countries around the world, it is important to look at the core values of a centre and the different kinds of people that they attract because of it.
‘T’, explains that “coworking in Asia is all about diversity – given the differences in language and culture.”
The rise in demand for coworking spaces that are multi-cultural is making it easier for clients to expand into several different markets from the comfort of their desk. The diversity and multi-culturalism that each coworking centre in Asia provides are creating vibrant communities, that often lead to partnerships forming between previously unrelated companies.
Together with a centre being able to yield diversity and multi-culturalism, we found it is equally important for the APAC market that a centre to provides additional services such as registered business addresses and hot desking options.
According to ’T’, “coworking spaces in Singapore are heading towards a more ‘service’ based industry, rather just providing a space.”if you wish to gain a competitive advantage over other providers you must be able to provide additional perks. T’ explains that “providing insurance, payroll processing software, business training programs and corporate travel rates all under the one roof is taking that next step towards where coworking is heading in APAC”.
The Why of Expanding Regionally
The ability to be able to provide consistency in services throughout the APAC region gives a centre an upper hand. ’T’ points out that there are few regional players in the coworking space industry in South East Asia.
This explains why “regional expansion across Asia Pacific is a major next step for Spacemob”.
Location is also key to a workspace’s success in APAC. ‘T’ uses the example of Spacemob, which is located in in the heart of the shopping district, Orchard; an area teeming with restaurants, stores, gyms, yoga studios and much more.
“We are finding our members really appreciate the work-life balance being in this location gives them,” says ‘T’.
The coworking movement has gone from being revolutionary to being evolutionary. As the industry continues to grow in APAC, operators will need to find ways to stand out from the competition. It’s no longer just about having a physical space to work, it goes much more beyond that.
