Flexible Workspace & The Gig Economy: A Match Made in Heaven.

Flexible workspaces like serviced offices and coworking spaces have fundamentally shifted the modern workplace, offering flexible working environments for business. From navigating the challenges of limited budgets and resources, flexible workspaces offer gig workers more than just an office. They are actively driving demand and supporting the gig economy.

What is The Gig Economy, I hear you say? Well, the UK gig economy is a free market where workers are rewarded per task, or ‘gig,’ completed instead of receiving a fixed salary. With a focus on flexible, temporary, and freelance roles, the gig economy gives workers the flexibility to earn on their terms.

Derived from the music industry, the ‘gig economy’ describes the growing trend of companies choosing to hire freelancers rather than full-time employees. Freelancers get paid for each individual “gig” they do – such as food delivery. McDonald’s McDelivery’ powered by Uber Eats is the perfect example.

Workers will have zero-hour contracts and limited employment benefits (sick leave, holiday pay, redundancy pay, maternity leave and even minimum wage). Many workers prefer the freedom that comes with these arrangements. Others feel they are left to compete for work to make up their full-time wage.

Historically, these workers were classified as independent contractors and did not have the same rights as traditional employees. However, this changed in 2021 when the UK Supreme Court ruled to support gig workers. This was emphasized in the media when Uber drivers gained employment rights and were reclassified from self-employed status.

So what does this all mean to the UK economy? Well, statistics supplied by standoutcv.com say the gig economy contributes over £20 billion annually to the British economy. You don’t have to look too far to notice the rising demand for this vibrant sector.

Why Does The Gig Economy Exist?

Surveys indicate that the top four reasons workers are moving to the gig economy. They are flexible work schedules, quick payment, the absence of a boss, and an improved work-life balance. Reasons that closely match those who are starting a business or wish to pure life as an entrepreneur.

The gig economy spans a range of sectors including transport, retail and food, where jobs are temporary and flexible. Headline UK companies operating within the gig economy include UBER, Deliveroo, Addison Lee, Amazon, Ocado, DPD & Argos.

With prominent platforms like Airtasker and UberEats highlighting flexibility, it surely won’t be long before we see more advertisements aimed at flexible working.

What is a Flexible Workspace?

Flexible workspaces have been instrumental in supporting growth within the gig economy. But what is the definition of a flexible workspace? A flexible workspace, such as shared offices, is often characterised by an open and adaptable layout shared by various companies.

There are many different types of workspaces available, including hot desks, which are non-fixed desks that employees can book as needed. If you want to leave items at work like a desktop computer or monitors, a dedicated workstation where members pay slightly more might be better suited. Many flexible workspaces in London and operators like Landmark offer these hot desks on a monthly membership basis, with prices starting as low as a few hundred pounds per month.

Challenges Faced By Startups, Side Hustles and Gig Workers

From side hustles to freelance gig workers doing a project, it’s no small feat to establish a business. And with many entrepreneurs facing common hurdles, flexible workspaces seek to address these challenges.

A traditional workspace can be a great option. It provides long-term financial security & in the form of a lease and the ability to reflect your brand within the space. However, there’s a problem, many landlords will want to see years of company accounts and strong projected financials, which isn’t always easy to come by if you own a newly formed business. This further supports flexible workspaces like serviced offices, coworking is a great option for gig workers.

• Limited Financial Resources: Traditional office leases typically require long-term commitments and significant upfront costs. For startups, investing capital in real estate can hinder funding for space product development or marketing.
• Scalability Concerns: Rapid growth—or an unpredictable trajectory—means startups need the flexibility to expand or downsize without being tied into a longer, more restrictive lease.
• Isolation and Lack of Collaboration: Entrepreneurs and small teams often work in silos, missing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and cross-industry learning that can spark innovation.
• Access to Tools and Talent: Early-stage businesses may lack access to high-end technology, meeting spaces, or skilled professionals who can complement their teams.

How Flexible Workspace Address Challenges

Flexible workspaces provide solutions that directly address these challenges, helping individual gig workers and startup businesses overcome common obstacles:

• Flexible and Cost-Effective Workspaces: Coworking spaces eliminate the financial burden of long-term leases. Great for startups seeking affordable options like hot-desking, private offices, or pay-as-you-go memberships. This flexibility allows businesses to scale at their own pace without the overhead of traditional office spaces. For example, brands such as WeWork and FORA, offer tiered pricing plans that include meeting rooms, mail handling, and other essential services on a simple, low-cost monthly membership.
• Access to a Collaborative Community: Startups thrive in environments where ideas flow freely. Coworking spaces are designed to foster collaboration by hosting events, workshops, and networking opportunities. You might find a tech startup discussing software trends or a legal consultant seeking new clients. Coworking hubs provide an ideal ground for professional connections.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: From high-speed internet and printing services to podcasting studios and video conferencing rooms, coworking spaces equip startups with tools that would otherwise require significant investment. Many include breakout areas, wellness facilities and kitchens.
• Support for Hybrid and Remote Models: With 40% of UK employers adopting hybrid work arrangements, flexible workspaces serve as satellite offices for startups whose teams split time between home and office. This model ensures employees have access to professional environments while maintaining flexibility.

The Role of Technology in Shaping Flexible Workspaces

With the high footfall of coworking, many flexible workspaces rely on technology to monitor to maintain operational efficiency. Visitor management systems, gated security with barriers to control access and optimise workspace usage. Members will get a keycard, fob or an access pass to enter the workspace. These help the provider track attendance and provide valuable insights for coworking operators and their partners interested in talking with members about their future requirements.

Which Sectors Are Driving Demand for Flexible Workspaces

The popularity of flexible workspace within the gig economy is partly explained by freelancers’ need to be around others. Many coworking companies schedule Christmas activities for their members. As an example, WeWork hosts a Christmas market pop-up, party, children’s day and wreath-making sessions. It’s not a surprise that several large corporations have begun to establish their operations within coworking spaces.

• Technology Startups: The tech sector in the UK is worth over £50 billion annually. A key driver of demand for flexible workspaces & Startups in artificial intelligence, fintech, and software development benefit from spaces that offer high-speed connectivity, innovation-focused communities, and proximity to investors.
• Professional Services: Consultants, legal professionals, and financial advisors often use coworking hubs to meet clients in central locations. Spaces offering private offices and meeting rooms help them maintain a professional image without the costs of permanent offices.
• Creative Industries: Freelancers in media, design, and content creation use coworking spaces tailored to their needs, with access to production studios, editing suites, and brainstorming zones.

Emerging Trends in The Flexible Workspace Sector

As flexible workspaces evolve, several trends are shaping their future:

• Sustainability Initiatives: Coworking operators have started to focus on more eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient lighting, recycled materials, and waste reduction initiatives. These efforts resonate with startups committed to sustainability.
• Niche and Industry-Specific Spaces: The rise of niche coworking communities tailored to specific industries allows startups to network with like-minded professionals and access resources relevant to their fields.
• Multi-Location Memberships: Startups with remote teams or travelling staff benefit from memberships that provide access to coworking hubs in multiple cities, ensuring consistent facilities and support. Sometimes referred to as a hub and spoke model they can offer an unformed experience for a distributed workforce.
• Integration of Virtual Tools: Virtual coworking platforms and online communities are becoming increasingly common, allowing startups to collaborate seamlessly with remote partners or access mentorship opportunities online.

The Future of Flexible Workspaces

From space management and virtual viewings to augmented reality these technologies will continue to shape the flexible working sector. Are we likely to see artificial intelligence fully replace traditional agents and brokers? We hope not! But, only a fool would say these technologies will not have a hand in shaping our sector in the years to come. Maybe we’ll even see the emergence of blockchain for data sharing, which in our opinion is much-needed for transparency. We think, the future flexible workspace is an exciting place to be and this year will be an interesting one as established brands continue to fight for market share.

Considering Flexible Workspace?

Finding the perfect flexible workspace goes beyond browsing options; it requires in-depth market insight and expert guidance. Working with a knowledgeable office broker ensures you have access to the best options with the flexibility to adjust as your business grows.

Our approach is straightforward. We provide honest recommendations, presenting you with handpicked office spaces that match your needs, budget, and preferred location. We also encourage clients to tour multiple spaces before committing. Some workspaces even allow trial days, so you can experience the environment firsthand before signing any agreement.

For help finding the right flexible workspace, our team is here to offer you expert, no-obligation advice. Want to know more? Get in touch today, and find the workspace that will inspire you.