Why Growing Businesses Choose Flexible Office Spaces: Key Advantages

Why Growing Businesses Choose Flexible Office Spaces: Key Advantages

News , Productivity

In today’s fast-paced business world, being able to change and adapt is crucial. A key area for this is your choice of office space. Flexible office spaces have become a top choice for growing businesses, offering a great mix of practicality, professionalism, and the ability to change as needed. This article will explain the benefits of flexible office spaces for your business.

 

1. Scalability and Customisation

 

One of the biggest advantages about flexible office spaces is that they can grow with your business. As your company grows, your office needs will change. Unlike traditional leases, flexible office spaces let businesses change their office size as required, allowing you to customise the workspace to fit your specific business needs.

 

2.  Cost Efficiency and Flexible Lease Terms

 

Flexible office spaces help businesses save money. They include the costs of space, services, utilities, and taxes, making it easier to manage expenses and reduce overheads. Plus, they offer short-term and rolling contracts, giving businesses the freedom to adjust their lease terms as their needs change.

 

3. Ready-to-Use Spaces in Prime Locations

 

Flexible office spaces come fully furnished with all the necessary office equipment a business needs, making them ready to use and saving precious setup time. They are often strategically located near residential areas, easily accessible by public transport, and close to high street shops, adding convenience for your team and simplifying daily operations.

 

4. Access to Amenities and Services

 

As well as providing a comfortable place to work, flexible office spaces often have a range of extra facilities and services. These include meeting rooms for your collaborative needs, reception services and IT support to keep your tech running smoothly. What’s more, these spaces often provide 24-hour building access and frequently offer onsite parking facilities, ensuring your business can operate on its schedule.

 

5.  Remote and Hybrid Work Support

 

With more people working remotely or in hybrid models, it’s important to have office spaces that can support these different work styles. Flexible office spaces do this well, integrating remote team members and offering adaptable spaces for when people need to be physically present.

 

From the ability to change and customise your space, to cost savings, convenience, and support for different work styles, flexible office spaces provide a great environment for business growth. At The Brentano Suite, we pride ourselves on providing quality flexible office solutions, creating environments that foster business growth. Visit our website to find your nearest location and enquire today. 

 

Read More
Meet A Tenant: How Care Solutions Group Are Supporting New Care Businesses

Meet A Tenant: How Care Solutions Group Are Supporting New Care Businesses

Meet A Tenant

We recently sat down with Gillian, founder of Care Solutions Group Limited. Drawing on over 30 years of experience in the care industry, Gillian and her team offer unique and individualised support to new businesses, helping them successfully navigate lengthy regulatory requirements and compliance standards.

 

Can You Tell Us A Little More About Care Solutions Group And How You First Started?

 

We provide regulatory support services for anyone looking to open their own care-related business. We started the business from home almost three years ago and currently help approximately 350 clients with all the administrative aspects of their registration journey, governance structure, and coaching support. 

 

That’s Great! What Types Of Businesses Do You Work With?

 

We mainly support primary and secondary care providers, such as medical practices, beauty clinics, and have a large portfolio of clients within the health and social care sector. Our goal is to help our clients understand industry requirements and ensure they meet compliance standards. We help get them set up and also offer ongoing compliance support.

 

What Would You Say Sets Your Company Apart From Others? 

 

What makes this business unique is our person-centered approach and the importance we place on supporting each client successfully through their journey. We work closely with every client to ensure their application is bespoke to their business, which is essential to pass regulatory requirements.

 

Can You Tell Us About Your Office Space And What It’s Like To Work At The Brentano Suite?

 

The Brentano Suite provides all the support that I need to operate my business. It offers a nice, peaceful environment, and when my clients come to visit, I feel proud to welcome them there. The place has a classy feel, and the receptionists always make my guests feel welcome.

There are only two of us based in the office, but being at The Brentano Suite feels like I am part of something bigger. 

Also, my son’s school is located nearby, which makes it very convenient for me. This was the main reason why I chose the Brentano Suites in the first place.

 

So, What’s Next For Care Solutions Group Ltd?

 

We’re looking to expand the business this year by branching into Ofsted registrations to support providers with Children’s Home Registrations. We are also in the process of adding fit outs and interior design services as a major part of our brand.

As we plan to take on a new consultant and a part-time admin for the office to manage the growing workload, we may need to upgrade our office space.

 

To find out more about Care Solutions Group, head to their website here.

At The Brentano Suite, we offer serviced office suites for companies across Northwest London and Hertfordshire, including meeting room hire, mail handling, and more. Have a look at our video tour to see inside our offices.

 

Read More
Discover Our Luxurious Meeting Rooms

Discover Our Luxurious Meeting Rooms

News , Productivity

We understand that a professional and well-equipped meeting room is essential for the success of any business. That’s why we offer a range of luxurious and fully equipped meeting rooms at all four of our serviced office locations. Whether you’re hosting a client meeting, training session, or team brainstorming session, our meeting rooms provide the perfect setting to impress your clients and colleagues.

 

The Benefits of Our Meeting Rooms

 

Our meeting rooms are designed with luxury and functionality in mind. All of our meeting rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including high-speed internet access, HD video conferencing equipment, and top-of-the-line presentation facilities. Additionally, our meeting rooms are furnished in a modern and contemporary manner and in almost every instance with access to natural light, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment that promotes productivity and creativity.

 

Multiple Meeting Room Options

 

We offer a diverse range of bookable meeting rooms across our four Brentano Suite locations, providing a versatile solution for any group size and type of meeting. At Elstree, our Mozart meeting room can host up to 10 people, while Beethoven 1 & 2 offer a flexible solution for smaller groups or larger gatherings when combined into a boardroom or seminar layout. Additionally, Finchley boasts the Vivaldi & Puccini meeting rooms, catering to different group sizes. Finally, our Whetstone and Hampstead Garden Suburb locations offer Schubert and Chopin, respectively, both comfortably seating up to 8 people.

 

On-Demand Meeting Room Bookings

 

At our serviced office locations, you have the flexibility to book our meeting rooms whenever you need them. You can reserve a meeting room at any time, whether it’s for an hour, a day, or a week. Simply reach out to one of our managers who will be more than happy to assist with your booking request or book online at: Book a Meeting Room – The Brentano Suite

 

Professional Support Staff

 

The Brentano Suite team are here to support and ensure that your meeting runs smoothly. We also offer catering facilities to suit your requirements. 

 

Experience Our Luxurious Meeting Rooms Today

 

Our flexible booking options make it easy to reserve a room whenever you need it, whether you are a tenant or visitor. You can learn more about each meeting room and enquire today via our website. 

Read More
Money-Saving Tactics: How to Keep Your Business Finances on Track in 2023

Money-Saving Tactics: How to Keep Your Business Finances on Track in 2023

News , Productivity

In today’s business climate, the financial burden of running a company in the UK can weigh heavy with rising costs including wages, taxes, raw materials and utility bills. However, cost reduction doesn’t have to be a complex task, a few straightforward money saving tactics can help you bring your expenses under control and enhance the overall financial wellbeing of your enterprise.

 

Leverage Technology

 

One of the most effective ways to save money is by utilising technology in your workplace. Adopting digital tools such as cloud-based storage, video conferencing, and CRM platforms can be more efficient and cost-effective than traditional methods. By embracing these tools, you can cut overheads associated with storage, office spaces, and transportation. Additionally, using cloud-based storage systems, CRM software, and project management platforms can increase efficiency within your teams, ultimately leading to more profit for your business in the long-term.

 

Go Paperless

 

Another way to reduce costs is by transitioning to a paperless business model. By eliminating the need for paper, ink, and printing machinery, you can save money on supplies and maintenance costs. Additionally, going paperless can help reduce your company’s impact on the environment, which is becoming increasingly important to customers and clients.

 

Utilise Skilled Freelance Workers

 

One of the biggest expenses for any business is the cost of employee salaries, payroll, pensions, and taxes. To mitigate these costs, consider hiring skilled freelance workers on a short-term basis as needed. In 2021, 40% of the UK workforce considered becoming freelance due to its flexibility, autonomy, and variety of work. Hiring freelancers can provide a scalable option at a more affordable rate, making it an attractive money saving option for businesses looking to streamline their costs.

 

Move to a Serviced Office

 

Finally, moving to a serviced office can help significantly reduce costs for your business. Serviced offices typically include utilities, electricity, and internet in their monthly rental rates, and often provide support staff such as reception teams and maintenance staff. Additionally, serviced offices can provide a flexible solution for a hybrid working environment and moving away from the city can also reduce transport costs and commuting time.

 

At The Brentano Suite, we offer serviced office solutions in North London and Hertfordshire, with amenities such as full-time reception, maintenance, and security staff, bookable meeting rooms, parking, and more. By choosing a serviced office, you can save on costs and focus on what really matters for your business. Contact us today to learn more about our locations and options.

 

Read More
Meet A Tenant: Private Medical Health Ltd

Meet A Tenant: Private Medical Health Ltd

Insight , Meet A Tenant

Less than 6 months ago, Private Medical Health Ltd struggled to find an office they were proud to call home. Now, founder David Levy is happier than ever with his small team based at the Brentano Suite in Elstree.

We sat down with David to chat about his business to date, his motivations for moving to the Brentano Suite and what the future holds for Private Medical Health Ltd.

 

Can You Tell Us A Little Bit About Private Medical Health?

 

As an independent Private Medical Insurance Broker, I advise Companies and Individuals on the best options for their private health insurance, which can typically be an overwhelming and confusing marketplace! It’s just myself and an admin support staff at the moment. We are FCA regulated advisors and we currently look after approximately 550 clients from Individuals to SMEs and Corporates.

 

That Sounds Exciting! What Do You Think Makes Your Company Unique?

 

What makes this business unique is our ethos and the importance we place on making all business personal. For me it’s not just about the sales, it’s always about the client. I approach all of our client relationships with passion and a personal touch. The business is built on diligence, honesty, and great advice, all done with a smile on our faces. That’s one of the reasons why The Brentano Suite is a great fit for the business, as the staff are focused on delivering great customer service too.

 

That’s Great To Hear! How Have Your Previous Places Of Work Been Compared To Working From The Brentano Suite?

 

When I started the business almost 7 years ago, I mostly worked from home. I realised I needed an office space as I was hiring a member of staff and wanted to separate my family life. Also operating a business from my home brought about difficulties with giving out my home address in a professional setting. I had a virtual office and post code in the city, but it wasn’t the most efficient.

After speaking to a couple of friends I came to The Brentano Suite and met with Jill and Suzie, the receptionists. Immediately I thought it was great and the rest is history. The receptionists really look after us by taking care of all postal services. We can access the office late into the evening and can come in on the weekend if we need to. They offer boardrooms to us for meetings and provide tea and coffee when clients or providers come in. Overall, the service you get is just fantastic, it’s like being at a 5-star hotel! 

 

That’s Amazing! Do You See Yourself Staying Here At The Brentano Suite Long-Term?

 

Definitely. The Brentano Suite gives me everything I’ll ever need as my business grows and I don’t think I’ll find anything better in the area.

I always said if I ever get an office, I want it to be local to me with parking. It’s so easy to get started and set up here. The ease of plug and play is great regarding connectivity.

 

So, What’s Next For Private Medical Health Ltd?

 

We have recently been authorised as an FCA regulated business so we’re now looking to see what growth opportunities arise from this. If we require additional hires, we will do this with the Brentano Suite by our side, thanks to the various sizes of office suites on offer here.

 

Read more about Private Medical Health Ltd get in touch with David here. 

To find out more about how The Brentano Suite can help your business to thrive, have a look at our video tour.

 

 

 

 

Read More
4 Key Business Trends to Know About in 2023:

 4 Key Business Trends to Know About in 2023:

Business , News

As 2023 approaches, some key business trends will likely impact the way local businesses operate day-to-day. To start the new year in the best way possible, it’s vital to understand, adapt and meet these trends effectively. Let’s take a look!

 

1. Developments in Digital Transformation

 

In 2023, we will continue to see how AI, cloud computing and blockchain technology can produce more effective hybrid and remote business models. SMEs should continue to embrace digital transformations in 2023 to improve the efficiency of day-to-day tasks. With the barrier to access for new technology lower than it ever has been, incorporating ‘software as a service’ models to your business functions has never been easier!

 

2. The Threat of Inflation and Supply Chain Disruption

 

There’s no hiding from the financial challenges that businesses are set to face thanks to the current high rates of inflation and supply chain disruptions. 3 in 4 small businesses in the UK fear long term damage to their businesses due to the current cost of living crisis. Therefore, it’s imperative to build in additional measures to mitigate supply chain shortages and rising costs heading into the new year.

 

3. Sustainable Business

 

In 2022 we saw a significant shift towards ethical consumer behaviour and 2023 will be no different. Sustainability needs to be at the forefront of your business strategy in 2023 as investors and consumers alike continue to support those more conscious of climate impact. Establishing a good understanding of how to measure the impact your business is having on society and the environment will enable you to capture a more sustainable and ethical customer-base.

 

4. Immersive Customer Experience 

 

The role of technology on the customer will continue to evolve. Customer experience when browsing, purchasing & enjoying goods and services will advance towards a more immersive experience. Businesses should incorporate exploring these new shifts in consumer behaviour heading into 2023.

  

With a constantly evolving business landscape, it’s important for businesses in the UK to adapt to the trends and innovations required of them to succeed in 2023.

The Brentano Suite has a variety of offices available for businesses of different sizes with a dedicated customer service team available at every site. Enquire today to discover your nearest location. 

 

 

Read More
4 Benefits of Hiring A New Employee

4 Benefits of Hiring A New Employee

News , Productivity

As a small business, it’s critical to know when to hire a new employee and to act in a timely manner. It can be difficult to justify whether or not to hire an additional member of staff, particularly for early-stage businesses. So, we’re taking a closer look at the benefits of hiring a new employee as you grow. 

 

Here Are 4 Reasons Why You Should Hire A New Employee: 

 

1. Improves Employee Morale

 

Employee retention is vital for business growth, and having staff who feel frustrated from a heavy workload can be problematic. Taking on new staff at the right time will prevent your workforce from feeling stressed or overworked if additional tasks are delegated to a new hire. 

 

2. Brings New Ideas To Your Business

 

New employees will bring previous experiences into the new role. This can be an incredibly valuable asset to any business, as new faces with fresh ideas can boost your company’s productivity and creativity as a whole. 

 

3. Increase The Skill Set Of Your Workforce

 

Expanding your current service offering is a proven way to obtain successful company growth. But this won’t be possible without the correct specialist staff to do so. Hiring a new employee with a specific skill set, not yet present in your existing workforce, will enable your company to remain competitive whilst improving the talent of your team.

 

4. Builds Up Capacity For Gaining New Business

 

Time is precious for small business owners. Hiring a new employee will help delegate workload away from other members of the team, allowing them more time to focus on delivering a better quality of service to your clients. As a business owner this can also free up significant resources to help you focus on driving business growth.

 

The Brentano Suite: 

 

Does it sound like it might be time to hire?

Find the right fit for your growing team with The Brentano Suite. We offer fully furnished, local office suites of different sizes depending on the stage of your business. Our customer service team is on hand to accommodate your employees as your company scales.  Enquire via the form on our website to find your nearest location. 

 

Read More
Small Business Grants in Hertfordshire

Small Business Grants in Hertfordshire

News , Productivity

13% of the UK Government’s total expenditure was used to fund grants pre-pandemic. Researching grant options can be an overwhelming process, especially for small businesses that might not have done so before. So, we’re breaking down what benefits grants have for local businesses and how you can obtain one in Hertfordshire. 

 

What Are Business Grants And What Are The Main Benefits?

 

A grant is a source of finance for a business usually provided by a Government or private organisation. Usually, it’s designed to help a business fund a particular project or achieve a specific goal. What makes them different from other finance streams is that they don’t require paying back over time. More often than not, small business grants are obtained on a regional level through local bodies. 

The benefits of grants for small businesses include retaining full ownership of your business, not having to pay the money back and reducing start-up costs. These might include financial planning support, legal advice or marketing and promotional support, to name a few.  

However, many grants come with strict eligibility guidelines. These are usually based on industry, location and business size. Therefore, thorough research is required to determine if a grant will apply to your business and its needs!

 

How To Find Grant Information: 

 

When researching grant options available to your business, these resources are a great place to start and can be easily filtered by region: 

 

Small Business Grants in Hertfordshire

 

If you are a small business located in Hertfordshire you might be eligible for one of the following grants, depending on your industry: 

The Hertfordshire Start-up Programme 

12 hours of free business support worth £1,400 including workshops, networking and more. The programme also offers grants from £500 – £3,000 to help cover start-up costs. This programme is available to any resident of Hertfordshire starting a business. 

Help to Grow Management Course 

A bespoke management course at the University of Hertfordshire which is 90% government-funded and open to local business owners of over one year. 

Low Carbon Innovation Fund

A £3m investment initiative by the Hertfordshire LEP to support SMEs who are reducing greenhouse gas by developing innovative technologies, products or services. 

Get Growing 2

Local business support and grants of up to £3,000 for SMEs in Hertfordshire with 5 or more full-time employees. This scheme also offers a growth action plan including tips on recruitment, digital strategy and product development. 

 

The Brentano Suite Elstree

 

The Brentano Suite operates luxury serviced offices and meeting rooms across North London and Hertfordshire. Our Elstree location provides businesses in Hertfordshire with a flexible serviced office solution to help businesses grow. 

Watch a video tour to find out more or get in touch with our team today. 

 

Read More
How To Adapt To A Hybrid Working Model

How To Adapt To A Hybrid Working Model 

News , Productivity

Hybrid Working is a flexible approach that allows employees to split their time between working in the office and working from home. So, what are the benefits of a Hybrid Office for employees and how can business owners adapt their own office to this working model?

 

The Benefit Of A Hybrid Office

 

Flexible working has become a sought after item for staff in full-time employment, with most employees expecting to work remotely at least three times per week.

By providing an emphasis on better work-life balance, reducing the commuters cost and desire for a greater ability to focus with fewer distractions, staff productivity and motivation levels have shown to increase from a working from home environment following the pandemic. 

A hybrid compromise will provide a collaboration-focused office environment, ensuring that human connection, knowledge sharing and staff interaction are still maintained. 

  

How To Adapt Your Office To Hybrid Working

 

In order for any type of Hybrid Office to be introduced, business owners should ensure they spend time implementing measures to be successful.

 

 1. Define The Policy

 

 The exact formula of a Hybrid Office will look different for each company. Some business owners might introduce a flexible system with more freedom for their employees, whilst other organisations could look at dedicated days for their staff to work remotely. Communicating this system clearly to your employees will allow for a smooth adaptation to a hybrid working environment.

 

 2. Provide The Technology

 

It’s not just about making sure your staff have access to a work laptop or mobile, it’s essential to provide them with the means to collaborate and communicate without needing to be in the office. Embracing the best applications, tools and technology will allow for teams to thrive in a Hybrid working environment.

 

3. Adapt The Workspace

 

There will still need to be a suitable environment for staff to remain productive, but with more team members working remotely, a Hybrid Office requires fewer desks and a smaller sized space. Business owners may look to downsize to a fully serviced location with flexible office sizes.

 

4. Stay Connected

 

Company culture is an important factor in any successful business and many employees often won’t cross paths in a hybrid office due to their schedule. Ensuring regular social opportunities for your staff will build togetherness in your teams, providing important human connection and interaction to result in a positive company culture.

 

The Brentano Suite

The Brentano Suite provides serviced office solutions across North London and Hertfordshire. Our offices come with access to meeting rooms and flexible layouts suitable to businesses looking to implement hybrid working.

Please get in touch to find out more or head to our latest news section to hear from our tenants.

 

 

 

Read More
Meet A Tenant: How Balance Books Switched To Hybrid Working

Meet A Tenant: How Balance Books Switched To Hybrid Working

Insight , Meet A Tenant

Finchley tenant Costas Michael, director of Balance Books, sat down to tell us about their unique approach to accounting and how they chose a hybrid working model at The Brentano Suite.

 

Hi Costas, Can You Tell Us What Balance Books Offers?

Balance Books specialises in bookkeeping, VAT returns, VAT advisory work, management accounts, and also budgets and forecasts.

We’re generalists. We work mainly with SMEs in the UK, everything from ship brokers to grocers, right across the board.

So, What Makes Your Company Different?

The accounting profession, as a whole, feels quite reactive; everyone is pushing to get everything done. But proactivity is where we excel. We make processes easy, speaking to our clients regularly; communication is vital.

Of course, we do the usual things, bookkeeping, VAT returns, and all that has to be correct. That’s a given, whoever the client goes to. But we also go through the figures with our clients to help them make sound business decisions. Beyond the basics, for 70%-80% of our clients we go on to use core processing to prepare management accounts or forecasts.

We’re also very tech focused. We don’t deal with a bag of receipts! It’s online accounting packages and apps.

 

Who’s In Your Team?

There are six of us based in the Finchley branch. We moved here about a year and a half ago. We used to be in Finchley central in a much bigger office, which we shared with Balance Books’ sister company.

Through our experiences during the pandemic, we realised we didn’t need such a big office. So, we looked to downsize and decided to implement a hybrid model.

The office is smaller here, and it suits us perfectly.

 

Can You Tell Us What Your Hybrid Model Looks Like?

So, we’re effectively on a rota. We thought about, based on our business requirements, how often we need to be physically in the same location.

It took time to adjust to the various changes, but now the team loves it. It’s the best of both worlds. As long as you have the right communication channels in place to get the work done as you need to, hybrid working suits our needs perfectly!

 

Does A Serviced Office Work Well For A Hybrid Company?

Yes! We were in a ‘normal’ office before. You have the keys and manage it yourself. But, of course, not everybody had keys and could go in as and when. It meant picking them up from someone and spending time organising things.

The serviced office works with key-codes and number pads. It’s very easy for the team to go in as needed. It’s really helped!

 

How Is Being At The Brentano Suite Different From Other Offices?

It’s very bright, clean, and modern. That fits with our culture. We’re a dynamic, tech-focused team.

The Brentano Suite is night and day compared with where we were before! Clients comment on that, too. Everyone that comes to see us is amazed at how nice these offices are and that adds to the client’s experience with Balance Books.

The reception team are excellent. They deliver messages, post, and really help us out.

 

That’s Great! What’s Next For You?

Well, we’re growing steadily. We take on clients where we’re right for them and they’re right for us.

In terms of services, we’re going to start focusing on the budgeting and forecasting side of things. The last few years have brought what-if planning to the forefront of everyone’s minds. We really need best and worst-case scenarios for all our businesses.

 

Thank You For Meeting With Us Today! Anything Else To add?

Just to say that everyone at The Brentano Suite has just been great. I don’t have a bad word to say about any of it! Being here has really helped us adapt to hybrid working and has saved us money, too.

 

To find out more about how The Brentano Suite can help your business to thrive, have a look at our video tour.

 

 

 

 

Read More