WeWork Vs Regus: Comparing the biggest names in the UK’s flexible workspace industry

Serviced offices are key to flexible working in London as they can tailor terms to any size of organisation. Two of the biggest names in the industry are WeWork and Regus.

This article will compare the options offered by both companies and help you decide which is the best for your business.

History of WeWork and Regus

WeWork: Redefining Collaborative Workspaces

WeWork, founded in 2010, was key in transforming the coworking industry by offering vibrant office spaces with a community focus. Boasting over 50 locations throughout the UK, including popular London hubs like Shoreditch and Soho, WeWork is tailored to companies searching for a creative environment.

Regus: A Long-Standing Serviced Office Provider

Founded in 1989, Regus is a part of the IWG group, the largest provider of flexible office space worldwide. With over 100 locations in London and the UK, Regus’ network covers 120 countries and is synonymous with reliability and privacy.

Location & Accessibility

When it comes to the size of stock, Regus boasts a larger global footprint with over 3500 buildings spanning 120 countries. This presence is ideal for companies that require flexibility across countries. From city centres to airports to rural areas, Regus have offices almost anywhere.

WeWork’s portfolio may only cover 37 countries, but its rapid growth, especially in business districts, makes it a strong competitor. WeWork boasts premium locations and modern offices which reflect the creative and tech industries that are based there.

WeWork and Regus both have a strong presence in prime London locations but cater to different industries.

WeWork

By targeting areas known for their vibrant surroundings, WeWork bridges the gap between corporate and collaborative workspaces. These are the areas with the most popular WeWork buildings in London:

·         Soho: A hotspot for media companies and creatives, Soho provides a buzzing atmosphere amongst the hustle and bustle of London. Ideal for businesses looking for a lively work setting.

·         Shoreditch: Known as the tech hub of London, Shoreditch is best suited for tech startups. WeWork offers vibrant, modern interiors to align with the area's innovative vibe.

·         Canary Wharf: Perfect for companies looking to be close to financial institutions. WeWork’s offerings here blend creative design with corporate sophistication.

Regus

Many Regus locations offer parking or are near mainline train stations. Its most popular London locations include:

·         Liverpool Street: With excellent transport links and close to the City, Liverpool Street is perfect for companies looking for a central presence with great connectivity.

·         Mayfair: The offices here are suited to high-profile businesses looking for impressive spaces in a prestigious postcode.

·         The City of London: The area is a hub for finance and legal industries, making it ideal for companies in these sectors.

Pricing & Membership Plans

It is important to note that serviced office pricing can fluctuate depending on demand and availability. According to our research, the following is pricing for both providers when this article was written.

WeWork

·         Coworking Membership: £239 per month, which includes access to over 150 WeWork locations.

·         Private Offices: Prices average around £750 per person monthly but can differ depending on location and the size of the office.

WeWork also offers meeting room credits in some of their packages. Add-ons such as IT Support, storage space or extra meeting room usage may cost extra.

Regus

·         Coworking Plans: From £129 per month, depending on the level of access you need. Unlimited access memberships start from £299.

·         Private Offices: £600 per person per month on average. This can be higher in prime locations like Mayfair but lower in areas like Islington.

·         Meeting Rooms: Starting from £15 per hour, depending on the size of the meeting room and the location.

Price Comparison

Our insight: WeWork’s pricing reflects its premium workspaces with unique amenities, whereas Regus appeals to organisations looking for functionality and cost savings.

Amenities

WeWork: Community-Driven, Vibrant Workspaces

WeWork boasts open-plan layouts, trendy furnishings and vibrant interiors. Shared amenities such as glass-walled conference rooms, kitchens and breakout spaces help to promote interaction and innovation.

Additional perks, such as free hot and cold drinks, add to the casual atmosphere. Creative industries and startups are often drawn to WeWork’s networking events and wellness spaces.

Many of WeWork’s buildings are BREEAM-certified and offer LED lighting, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems and motion sensors.

Regus: Traditional Private Offices

Regus offers a more traditional office experience which prioritises privacy and boosts productivity. Its offices are typically more enclosed, ideal for companies handling sensitive data.

Regus provides modern amenities such as business-grade Wi-Fi, ergonomic furniture and administrative services. Whilst less social than WeWork, Regus’ offices meet the needs of organisations that value discretion and reliability.

When it comes to serviced offices in London, WeWork and Regus offer fantastic options. WeWork provides dynamic, community-led spaces, whilst Regus is perfect for traditional, straightforward offices.

It is important to consider your priorities, assess the type of workspace you’re looking for and have an idea of your budget when deciding which is the best provider for you.