WeWork plans to pursue the WELL Coworking Rating across more than 300 locations worldwide over the next three years, marking one of the largest health and wellness initiatives undertaken by a coworking operator.
The program, developed by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) in collaboration with The Instant Group, will cover roughly half of WeWork’s global network of more than 600 locations spanning five continents. The company says the initiative is expected to impact more than 550,000 members who use its flexible workspaces each year.
WeWork’s Chief Design Officer, Ebbie Wisecarver, told Allwork.Space, “Workplace wellness has always been a priority at WeWork, and pursuing the WELL Coworking Rating builds on that longstanding commitment. From HVAC upgrades and improved lighting to initiatives like the WeWork scent, we’re dedicated to continually enhancing our already exceptional workplace experience.
Health Standards Expand Across Flexible Workspaces
The WELL Coworking Rating provides a framework for improving workplace health through evidence-based standards focused on operations, occupant experience, and workplace design. The rating includes more than 50 features across areas such as air and water quality, lighting, thermal comfort, movement, nourishment, safety, and community.
Originally created specifically for the flexible workspace industry, the rating is intended to help coworking operators deliver more consistent, healthier environments while providing businesses with greater transparency when selecting workspace providers.
“Wellness has evolved from a workplace perk to a core expectation. Employees want the office to be a destination and the experience to be worth the commute, and workplaces that prioritize health and well-being are increasingly becoming part of that standard,” Wisecarver told Allwork.Space.
Growing Focus on Workplace Experience
As organizations evaluate office portfolios, factors such as health, workplace experience, and employee performance are becoming more prominent in workspace selection.
WeWork said it will implement the WELL Coworking Rating strategies throughout its portfolio over the next three years, covering coworking spaces, private offices, managed workspaces, and enterprise solutions.
The initiative also signals continued momentum behind health-focused standards in the flexible office market, as operators increasingly compete on workplace quality and employee experience in addition to location and amenities.
