Posted inInsights

Why are big MNCs adopting coworking model

Aditya Mehta, CEO and Co- Founder, Akasa Coworking.

With the rise in the popularity of coworking spaces, there has been a noticeable shift in large organisations’ attitude regarding these modern-day collaborative spaces. Some technical behemoths, such as IBM, Microsoft, and Verizon, are experimenting with coworking spaces to put employees near and easily communicate with new entrepreneurs.

While small businesses go into coworking spaces to use them as their primary workplace, coworking spaces act as an opportunity for large enterprises to develop more diversified teams far away from their headquarters and manage their team expansion more flexibly. So, it’s no surprise that large firms have compelling motivations to enter coworking spaces.

Here are some of the reasons why BIG MNCs are adopting coworking spaces-

Cost Effectiveness

Coworking offices give mental peace to corporations as they don’t need to pay extra for furniture, office equipment, utilities, decor items, and even 24×7 coffee/tea dispensers because they have to pay only the monthly fee to the owner of the co-working space. People like janitors, technicians, and even office receptionists are paid collectively through that monthly fee. Various studies suggest that shared offices bring almost 25 per cent savings for companies by significantly curtailing their equipment and maintenance costs. 

Increased Productivity

Working alongside startups and industry innovators offer more than just making it simpler to attract new talent; it also motivates teams and enhances overall productivity. Employees are more inspired when they see others working hard and coming up with fantastic ideas, offering big corporations another reason to adopt coworking spaces. Furthermore, working from a new office might provide a mental boost and inspire you to consider new ways to solve challenges at work.

Access to Innovators

Some major multinational companies opt for coworkingspaces to become closer to the industry’s innovators. Because coworking spaces typically have a social and collaborative component in addition to the elements of a traditional office in a more relaxed way, it becomes easy to engage with others. This allows large organisations to gain access to startups with game-changing ideas and new talent.

Moreover, start-ups or smaller businesses are continually attempting to outsource specific business services to larger corporations. While MNCs may frequently locate the ideal solopreneur to assist them in solving a high niche problem, this creates an ecosystem that helps both smaller and larger enterprises.

Employee Convenience

Most large corporations that allow their employees to work in coworking spaces give them the option of working in a coworking setting or in a traditional office. Employees will have more flexibility and will be able to work from wherever place is most convenient for them. Employees can choose a location in the city that is close to other activities for the day.  Ultimately, employees appreciate the reduced commute that coworking facilities provide.

Shift to Tier II and III cities

Most organisations observed a migration of employees who wanted to return to their hometowns in Tier II and III cities as work from home became the norm. Companies, in turn, began to consider moving operations to these smaller cities in order for their staff to work while remaining close to home. This gave the co-working market in these semi-urban areas a considerable boost.

Risk Reduction

Companies confront multiple challenges while moving into a large workspace, such as travelling back and forth to finalise the agreement and settle on the best cost, deciding on the best-suited design elements and furnishings, dealing with hidden fees, and the high setup charges. Coworking spaces, on the other hand, manage everything from the agreement, sign-up, front-desk services, furniture, utilities, and events, allowing you to focus on your core business effectively and efficiently.

Long-term sustainability

Since COVID-19 has challenged the traditional office model, there has been a high demand for co-working spaces from mid-sized and large organisations concerned with corporate sustainability. Most of these organisations want to minimise costs while maintaining a workforce that works with long-term efficiencies. Co-working players have offered such approaches, encouraging long-term commitments from larger organisations.

Moreover, the coworking space industry provides numerous benefits and is flourishing globally. With its presence across metros and a slew of tier II locations, shared workspaces are reshaping the modern workplace. Companies can use this to ensure that their employees can effectively focus on driving their business forward by working from any of the coworking spaces.