Attributed to Suvrat Jain, Founder & CEO at Onward Workspaces

Flexible workspaces are influencing the way businesses see real estate. Owners, operators, and brokers are working together to create better solutions. According to the data, businesses are increasingly seeking workspaces that can change to meet their demands. More than 80% of businesses plan to increase their office space using flexible choices, per Colliers’ research Flex Spaces: Reshaping the New-Age India Office Market. By 2030, large companies—particularly multinationals—are expected to employ flexible workspaces as much as three to four times as often. Additionally, as reported by JLL, 30% of all office space will be flexible by then.

Because it gives them flexibility and aids in cost management, businesses choose this direction. Within five years, almost 60% of businesses anticipate that flex spaces will make up for at least 20% of their office space. Because of this change, brokers, owners, and operators must work together to offer smart, economical, and sustainable solutions.

Brokers Are More Than Just Dealmakers

Brokers were once focused only on transactions, but that role is changing. They help businesses make informed choices based on market trends, tenant needs, and the growing demand for managed workspaces. They are no longer just closing deals but offering advice on how companies can use flex spaces to meet their goals.

With more big companies making flexible workspaces a key part of their real estate plans, brokers help bridge the gap. They provide data and insights on occupancy trends, lease terms, and the best locations for business growth. With 60% of companies seeing flex spaces as a key part of their real estate strategy, brokers play a vital role in making these transitions smooth.

Operators Are Creating More Than Just Workspaces

Flex space operators do more than just lease office space. They create environments that encourage collaboration and productivity. A well-run flex space offers convenience, modern tech, security, and services that go beyond a simple office lease.

Companies are looking for spaces that improve the way their teams work. With around 40% of businesses planning to use flex spaces as a key part of their core operations, operators are investing in better facilities. The goal is to provide workspaces that save money and improve efficiency and employee satisfaction.

Smarter Lease Agreements Benefit Everyone

Traditional office leases are replaced with flexible agreements that work better for businesses today. Revenue-sharing models, hybrid leases, and performance-based contracts are becoming more common. These agreements help all parties involved.

For operators, flexible lease models ensure consistent occupancy and increase the value of their products. Operators gain access to prime locations with terms that allow them to scale and meet demand. Brokers, in turn, build stronger relationships by facilitating the supply side of the deal and helping with the demand from the right companies.

More businesses are also committing to longer-term agreements. About 77% of occupiers now prefer contracts lasting more than a year. This shows that companies trust flex spaces to support their operations in the long run. Well-structured agreements ensure that all sides benefit, balancing stability with the flexibility that businesses need.

A Collective Effort to Expand the Market

Hybrid work is here to stay, and flex spaces are becoming a major part of the office market. The rising demand for these spaces drives market growth, but this success depends on collaboration.

About 45% of companies prefer to expand into prime office areas, meaning owners, brokers, and operators must work together to make these locations available. Brokers find the right deals, operators create appealing workspaces, and owners provide the right spaces. Together, they’re helping businesses grow while pushing the flex space industry forward.

Flex workspaces are becoming increasingly prevalent in commercial real estate, not just a feasible choice. The change is well underway, as 60% of occupiers recognize the importance of flex spaces in scaling operations, and 80% want to add them to their portfolios. Future workspaces will be more adaptable, economical, and efficient due to the collaboration of brokers, owners, and operators.