What coworking trends can we expect in 2018?
The coworking sector in Ireland has seen exponential growth in the last number of years. Currently, it is estimated that over 2,000 people in Ireland use coworking facilities and this number is expected to rise.
Last year saw a stark increase in the number of new members signing up to use coworking spaces all over the world, as more businesses are beginning to see the positive benefits and sense of community that comes with using shared office space. But, what can we expect for 2018? What new trends are headed our way and will they be beneficial?
Here at Glandore, we are extremely passionate about providing our members with premium coworking spaces and we pride ourselves on keeping up with the latest trends. We’ve put together a list of the top trends we can expect in the coming year.
1. An increase in demand
According to many reports, the popularity of coworking spaces is expected to continue for quite some time.
The Global Coworking Unconference Conference, the largest coworking conference in the world, recently issued a report which suggests that the number of global coworking spaces is expected to rise to over 30,000 with over 5 million members by 2022.
This, according to GCUC, is mainly down to the larger sizes of new coworking offices which are opening as well as existing spaces expanding to accommodate more new members.
2. A focus on health
Workplace wellness programmes are certainly on the rise in a lot of major companies, especially those who reside in the coworking offices.
Many coworking offices already offer a number of wellness activities including health classes and yoga sessions. In 2018, it is predicted that an emphasis on mental health will become part of many workplace wellness programmes.
Here at Glandore, we are passionate about workplace wellness. We currently organise a wellness programme for all our members which includes activities such as mindfulness seminars, pilates, onsite barber and masseur and meditation classes.
3. Technology
Technology is already playing a major role in different coworking spaces with the majority of providers boasting state-of-the-art tech as part of their sales strategies.
Tech start-ups are currently on the rise around the world with many of them choosing coworking spaces as their base from which they will grow. This means coworking spaces will need to provide the technology to meet their needs.
Automating your coworking space will also see growth this year. Things such as automation through apps, including heating, check-in and billing are just some of the ways the coworking space will continue to develop.
4. Larger companies coworking
Since its inception, coworking has provided optimal conditions for start-ups, small businesses and freelancers.
As coworking continues to grow, shared offices are expected to see an influx of larger businesses opting into using hot desks and shared office spaces as they offer cost-effective solutions for testing new and innovative ideas.
5. Coworking spaces in unexpected places
Ever walk by a building and wonder what’s inside? In 2018, it’s most likely a coworking space.
Considering the aspect of simplicity which comes with coworking spaces, it’s not uncommon to see them pop up in some unlikely locations.
Some of the more notable spaces include a Philadelphia nightclub which rents out its location as a shared office by day. We expect to see more of this occur this year which only adds to the vibrant culture of coworking.