Southampton: Grant Thornton officially opens the first collaborative working space in the south

Global business advisers and accountancy firm Grant Thornton welcomed more than 30 local business people to officially launch its new collaborative working space at the University of Southampton Science Park in Chilworth recently.

Partner at Grant Thornton LLP Southampton Norman Armstrong addressed the guests compiled of clients, local businesses and media to explain how the concept of the space was conceived and why it was a vital move in progressing with modern working. “The lease was ending on our previous space in the centre of Southampton and we were keen to mirror the bold approach Grant Thornton applies nationally on a local level. Our overarching strategy of promoting activities which stimulate growth and create a vibrant economy can be facilitated here by bringing a range of people together to connect, collaborate and exchange ideas. We are not alone in considering how changing technology and working behaviours impact on our office environments. The space will be a place for people to spend an hour, a day, host a meeting, make a call or hold an offsite team session. We’re thrilled to have already welcomed so many people to the space and with many bookings for the future. Ultimately the move reflects our ambition to be the ‘go to’ firm for growth and our focus on those dynamic organisations that wish to grow.” 

The firm also embraced big work environment changes including cutting the office space from 21,000 sq ft to 3,500 sq ft, fully embracing agile working, eradicating all paper, files, phones and minimising post. “It was a big change but a welcome one and very liberating at the same time,” said Armstrong.

With free Wi-Fi, coffee and a range of spaces and pods for meetings, discussions or an opportunity to work in a shared space, Grant Thornton hopes to encourage lots of exciting interactions. Use of the space is free to businesses and networks which share the firm’s vision for an innovative, connected and collaborative region here on the South Coast.

“The world of work is changing and my colleagues and I are delighted to be at the forefront of this change,” Norman continued. “Many people find that inspiration and ideas come more freely when they are relaxed and sat in an environment with a 'buzz'.”

A second open event will be on Wednesday
July 12, 6-8pm to register to attend and see the space in person visit:

https://sites-grant-thornton.vuturevx.com/27/1287/landing-pages/southampton-office-launch.asp