Why Professional Services Should Establish Offices in Manchester
With a population of around 600,000, Manchester is one of the UK’s largest cities. Plus, an extra seven million people live within one hour’s drive of Manchester City Centre. This makes it the UK’s largest travel-to-work area outside of London.
It should therefore come as no shock that Manchester has a strong and long-established local economy. In the decade leading up to 2020, Greater Manchester’s economy grew by 39%. This took the area’s economic value from £53.89 billion to £74.85 billion.
Today, experts forecast that Manchester will see the UK’s third-largest economic growth between 2024 and 2026, with an annual growth rate of 2.5%.
This growth, along with a diverse population, makes Manchester a great location for establishing a business. Plus, with 815,000 square feet of office space in Manchester under construction, there’s never been a better time to make the move.
9 reasons professional services should establish a Manchester office space
Manchester is home to the UK’s largest financial, professional, and business services industry outside of London. This industry accounts for 20% of Manchester’s local economy and employs over 280,000 people.
But, aside from a strong professional services industry, what else makes the city attractive for this sector?
1. City of the future
fDi magazine’s European Cities and Regions of the Future 2023 named Manchester as the UK’s top large city of the future. It ranked among the top 10 across several categories.
This included Economic Potential, Connectivity and Business Friendliness. This recognition, along with a reputation as the UK’s creative capital, highlights Manchester as a business hub with a bright future.
Finding office space in Manchester City Centre would put your business at the heart of this growth. As a result, you will have continuous opportunities for expansion, allowing your business to grow alongside the city’s economy.
2. Advantageous location
Another key reason behind Manchester’s appeal is its geographic location. As a major city in the northwest of England, it provides easy access to several business hubs across the UK.
Offices in Manchester don’t just give you access to Greater Manchester’s thriving economy. Thanks to excellent transport links, you’ll also have access to customers and employees from a range of locations.
London by train can take as little as two and a half hours and Birmingham is only an hour and a half away by car. Liverpool and Leeds are both within an hour from Manchester Victoria station. Meanwhile, Cardiff and Edinburgh are reachable by train in around three and a half hours.
Manchester Airport also offers direct flights to over 190 domestic and international destinations. So, when it comes to client meetings and business development, even a small office in Manchester could open big doors.
3. Operating costs
Business costs in Manchester are 20% cheaper than in London. And, in 2024, the cost of living in Manchester is still significantly lower than the capital.
Consumer prices overall are 19.6% lower and rent is 51.5% lower. Childcare is around 30% lower in Manchester and the price to buy an apartment in the city centre is about 70% cheaper per square metre than in London.
Manchester’s lower cost of living is attractive to emerging and established talent. Meanwhile, the lower operational costs allow businesses to do more with less. Combined, these create a welcoming environment where businesses can thrive.
4. Cross-sector innovation
The region’s growth and success is no accident. Authorities like Innovation Greater Manchester work to bring business, scientific, academic and local government leaders together to foster collaboration and innovation.
With local and national Government funding, the organisation hopes to generate £3.8 billion of economic benefit. This would create over 100,000 jobs in the region.
Manchester’s Innovation District is also bringing a £1.7bn development to the area. Across a neighbourhood of four million square feet, students, entrepreneurs, researchers and investors will join to grow ideas and develop technologies and advancements that could change the world.
This developing area in the heart of Manchester has a bright and exciting future. As such, it’s an opportunity-filled environment for new and established businesses to thrive.
5. Entrepreneurial spirit
In 2023, Manchester saw a 33.82% year-on-year increase in new businesses. With 21,099 new businesses by the end of the year, the region was among the top three UK cities for startups. On the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2023, it ranked 19th in Europe and 85th worldwide.
With a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Manchester is a great place to mix with clients and like-minded businesses. A small office space in Manchester could provide access to networking events that might transform your business.
6. Diverse industry expertise
Along with an established business services sector, Manchester is home to a wide range of industries. This includes fast-growing tech, advanced manufacturing, and digital creative industries.
This diverse economy offers easy access to expertise across a wide range of topics and skills. And, for professional services firms, it creates opportunities to expand the client base across an array of sectors.
7. Strong economy
The region’s growth is a major reason to invest in private office space in Manchester. However, the city’s resilience and long-term economic strategies are also key to its business appeal. Economies fluctuate, but Manchester’s strong foundation provides the stability required to thrive.
8. Business support
Manchester is home to several organisations and authorities that work to support businesses big and small. Manchester Digital, Pro-Manchester, and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce host regular networking events across several industries.
MIDAS and Manchester City Council also provide access to information, organisations, and initiatives that supply mentorship, funding, and support.
9. Access to global experts
Along with its impressive ecosystem of new businesses, Manchester is also home to established companies. Google, Amazon, Kellogg’s, Jaguar Land Rover, and Boohoo all have a base in Greater Manchester.
Manchester also hosts five universities and over 100,000 students. Producing 40,000 graduates annually, this education system generates a sustainable talent pool. So, whether you need big-league specialists or fresh-faced graduates, you’ll find plenty of skills in Manchester.
Office to rent in Manchester
Whether you need a large private office or some hot desks with high-speed internet, there’s plenty of office space to rent in Manchester. So, without further ado, let’s explore our top choices for Manchester workspaces.
Didsbury
Didsbury is ideal for businesses looking for cost-effective office space in South Manchester. Only five miles from the city centre, it’s calm and convenient. It's also close to big businesses in a range of industries including aviation and technology.
Enjoy secure parking along with easy access to East Didsbury Station, the motorway, and Manchester Airport. With fully equipped meeting rooms, open areas and quiet working spaces, you can enjoy productivity in abundance.
Highlights include
- Meeting rooms
- Outside seating area
- Secure underground parking
- Sandwich service
Information about Didsbury
- Location: Honeywell House, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M20 2YY
- Starting cost: From £205 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Fletcher Moss Bus Stop (a three-minute walk away) and East Didsbury Train Station (an eight-minute walk away)
Halifax House
Whether you need coworking spaces and meeting rooms or a private custom office, Halifax House has an array of options to choose from. Right in the heart of Manchester’s professional services hub, these Spinningfields offices have plenty of opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Host client meetings in furnished meeting rooms and enjoy team bonding in breakout areas and relaxed kitchen spaces. At night, you can stroll around the lively neighbourhood and enjoy its excellent restaurants.
Highlights include
- Meeting rooms
- Breakout areas
- Major transport links
Information about Halifax House
- Location: 93-101 Bridge Street, Manchester, M3 2GX
- Starting cost: Prices available upon request
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: St Mary's Parsonage Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away) and Salford Central Train Station (a seven-minute walk away)
125 Deansgate
Deansgate is another great option for those wanting to be near Manchester’s professional services cluster. With 12 floors of office space to rent, there’s plenty of flexibility and room to scale up as your business grows.
By day, you can impress clients with a modern and beautifully designed office bathed in natural light. By night, you can enjoy the vibrant neighbourhood’s thriving restaurant, bar, and entertainment scene.
It’s also within walking distance to several train stations, making it an easy commute for employees.
Highlights include
- Meeting rooms
- Break-out areas
- Bike storage
- On-site parking
- Shower and locker facilities
Information about Deansgate
- Location: 125 Deansgate, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 2BY
- Starting cost: From £239 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: St Mary's Parsonage Bus Stop (a three-minute walk away), Salford Central Train Station (a nine-minute walk away), Deansgate Train Station (a 10-minute walk away)
St James Tower
St James Tower is ideal for businesses looking for cost-effective Manchester offices to rent.
These modern offices offer flexible workspaces to suit all kinds of businesses and working styles. Enjoy quiet concentration in private areas and meeting rooms. Or, to encourage collaboration, use the open-plan spaces flooded with natural light.
This office building is also in a prime position for promoting a healthy work-life balance. With several parks within a short walk, it’s a great location for businesses that care about employee wellbeing.
Highlights include
- Meeting rooms
- Break-out areas
- Major transport links
Information about St James Tower
- Location: 7 Charlotte Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 4DZ
- Starting cost: From £189 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Piccadilly Gardens Tram Stop (a five-minute walk away), Manchester Piccadilly Train Station (a 10-minute walk away), Oxford Road Train Station (an 11-minute walk away)
Peter House
Peter House is ideal for businesses that want a trendy workspace in the heart of Manchester’s innovation quarter.
Modern industrial interiors and large windows offer plenty of natural light. This makes these offices great for collaboration and creative innovation. And, close to several Universities, it’s also an excellent spot for attracting emerging talent.
Highlights include
- Bike storage
- On-site sandwich and coffee bar
- Secure underground parking
Information about Peter House
- Location: Oxford Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 5AN
- Starting cost: From £209 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: St Peter’s Square Tram Stop (a one-minute walk away) and Oxford Road Train Station (a seven-minute walk away)
Spinningfields
If impressing your clients with an office in one of Manchester’s tallest buildings is a high priority, take a look at Spinningfields. With a double-height atrium, column-free office layouts, and outside seating, it won’t disappoint.
For after-work drinks or client entertainment, the surrounding area has plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Highlights include
- Outside seating
- Secure underground parking
- On-site shower facilities
Information about Spinningfields
- Location: 3 Hardman Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 3HF
- Starting cost: From £239 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Salford Central Train Station (an eight-minute walk away) and St Peter’s Square Tram Stop (a nine-minute walk away)
82 King Street
Whether you’re looking for a long-term custom office or a day office in Manchester City Centre, 82 King Street is a cost-effective option you’ll love. Built in a Grade I-listed building, it combines grand architecture with warm and modern design.
With a videoconferencing studio, secure parking on-site, and many luxury shops and restaurants nearby, this office is ideal for businesses with a hybrid workforce.
Highlights include
- Break-out areas
- Sandwich service
- Secure underground parking
Information about 82 King Street
- Location: 82 King Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M2 4WQ
- Starting cost: From £135 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Brown Street But Stop (a one-minute walk away), St Peter’s Square Tram Stop (a six-minute walk away), Piccadilly Gardens Tram Stop (a seven-minute walk away)
Manchester Airport
This modern, scalable, and fully equipped office building near Manchester Airport is great for businesses with a widespread workforce and client base.
The airport is within walking distance and the city is only 30 minutes by train. With this kind of accessibility, you can explore opportunities across a wide range of cities, countries, and industry hubs.
When employees are working from home or on-site with clients, you can connect using the videoconferencing studio. And, when you need to collaborate in person, use one of the 18 modern and fully-equipped meeting rooms.
Highlights include
- On-site restaurant
- On-site sandwich and coffee bar
- On-site shower facilities
Information about Manchester Airport
- Location: 3000 Aviator Way, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M22 5TG
- Starting cost: From £135 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Manchester Airport Train and Tram Station (a 15-minute walk away)
249 North
249 North is a modern office in Greater Manchester that’s conveniently within a five-minute walk from Altrincham town centre. Here you can enjoy comfortable office space at a lower price point while maintaining access to city clients in under 40 minutes.
Join several companies in the professional services sector and enjoy a fully equipped office with an on-site gym and showers.
Highlights include
- Break-out areas
- On-site gym
- On-site shower facilities
Information about 249 North
- Location: Two Four Nine North, Lynnfield House, Altrincham, Greater Manchester, WA14 4DZ
- Starting cost: From £169 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: The Wheatsheaf Bus Stop (a five-minute walk away) and Altrincham Train Station (a 15-minute walk away)
Bow Chambers
Bow Chambers is an excellent option, particularly for professional businesses serving the creative industries. Located in a members-only venue, it’s a prestigious and beautiful office space that will impress clients and employees alike.
For after-work client entertainment or team bonding, Manchester’s famous Arndale Centre is only a five-minute walk away.
Highlights include
- Meeting rooms
- Break-out areas
- City-centre location
Information about Bow Chambers
- Location: Bow Chambers, Manchester, M2 4JB
- Starting cost: From £239 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: St Peter’s Square Tram Stop (a five-minute walk away), Exchange Square Tram Stop (an eight-minute walk away), Salford Central Train Station (an 11-minute walk away)
Digital World Centre
Nestled right next to Manchester’s famous Media City, Digital World Centre is a prime office location for businesses servicing the media, digital, and creative industries. This area is also popular with the tech, marketing, legal, and business support sectors.
Enjoy state-of-the-art facilities including conference rooms, a 100-seat auditorium and an exhibition space. Once you’re done for the day, explore the area’s growing range of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Highlights include
- Sandwich service
- Outside seating area
- Secure underground parking
Information about Digital World Centre
- Location: The Quays, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M50 3UB
- Starting cost: From £145 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Huron Basin Bus Stop (a two-minute walk) and MediaCityUK Tram Stop Train Station (a three-minute walk away)
Establish your business with a serviced office in Manchester
Whether it’s a private office near Old Trafford or shared office space in the Northern Quarter, Manchester has plenty of exciting options to choose from. Browse our wide range of Manchester Office Space to find the perfect fit for your business.
Enjoy the ultimate flexibility with our membership options. Impress clients with a custom office made just for you. Or secure private office space and explore coworking spaces for cost-effective and scalable options.
For help finding the right solution for your needs, talk to a Regus office expert today.