As Bankruptcy Challenges Persist, WeWork Secures Prime Real Estate in Dublin

A new WeWork deal is spotlighting the high demand for coworking centers in Ireland. WeWork’s recent agreement with real estate developer Hines for the lease of the former Central Bank of Ireland HQ in Dublin, as reported by The Irish Times, includes incentives such as an extended rent-free period and contributions to office fit-out costs. 

The company’s commitment to leasing approximately 73,000 square feet at Central Plaza in Dublin, even at a substantial rent of €60 per square foot, shows how the demand for such spaces by small and medium businesses (SMBs) and even large enterprises in Ireland has risen to new heights. 

The increase of gig workers, remote work, and the increasing demands for other flexible work arrangements, have contributed to Ireland’s overall demand for coworking spaces. These spaces not only provide physical infrastructure but also contribute to a sense of community and professional networking opportunities that is highly valued in the modern workforce. 

The willingness of landlords like Hines to negotiate and provide incentives such as fit-out contributions to the bankrupt WeWork could be seen as a response to these changing demands in the workforce. It suggests a recognition that the traditional long-term, commercial office lease is becoming less appealing in fast-changing commercial markets. It also shows how landlords are still open to establish deals with WeWork in efforts to successfully adapt to these new changes.  

The cost of the large lease, though, still raises questions about WeWork’s business strategies as the company is simultaneously attempting to exit expensive leases as part of its bankruptcy restructuring.