The Flexible Office Space Industry is Expanding as WeWork Downsizes

The coworking/flexible office space industry is experiencing healthy growth and expansion, particularly among WeWork’s main competitors. Recent developments have seen two key companies in the industry, International Workplace Group (IWG) and The Instant Group, make strategic advancements that dramatically differ from the bankruptcy challenges faced by their industry rival, WeWork.  

On one hand, IWG is treading an aggressive expansion trail by seizing growth opportunities opened by WeWork’s turmoil. According to a recent report published by CoStar, the company has recently taken over a significant space in Charlotte, North Carolina, one that was formerly occupied by WeWork.  

This move is a part of IWG’s broader strategy to expand its global footprint, which has seen an addition of around 400 locations in the first half of 2023 alone. It’s reported that IWG has already taken over 50 spaces that were previously WeWork’s, and it now boasts a portfolio of 4,000 locations across 120 countries. A direct contrast to WeWork’s downsizing and restructuring which has continued to be tested with financial hurdles and struggles with lease liabilities.  

On the other hand, The Instant Group recently announced that it has acquired Officespace.com. The move is reported to significantly increase the company’s offerings in the flexible workspace market. According to the company’s announcement, the acquisition positions The Instant Group as a formidable player in North America — adding over 300,000 commercial listings to its global platform. A unique selling point for Officespace.com’s acquisition, according to The Instant Group, was that it gives tenants the capability to search for spaces without a subscription and it offers free listing options to property owners and brokers.  

While WeWork’s approach led to overextension and financial strain, its rivals are charting a course of cautious expansion and strategic acquisitions. These recent expansion moves coincide with the rise of coworking around the world. Companies like IWG and The Instant Group are demonstrating adaptability and growth in an industry that has seen negative setbacks faced by WeWork.