AshbyCapital has chosen to partner with flexible workspace provider, Plus X Innovation, to create a new exemplary innovation hub at The Future Works in Slough.
Plus X Innovation has been selected due to its proven track record of creating collaborative ecosystems with a diverse mix of talents, skills and technology, attracting and connecting with local businesses and the wider community. Its latest hub will sit across 23,644 sq ft, over the ground, first and second floor of AshbyCapital’s 100,000 sq ft office development, and will open later this year.
With a focus on startups and incubating new businesses, this exciting new partnership will increase innovation and social impact in Slough, aiming to deliver high-value jobs and accelerate economic growth. Across its two existing hubs, Plus X Innovation has supported over 400 businesses who have gone on to raise £165m and create over 1,000 jobs within the past few years alone.
Plus X Innovation will create a unique and inspiring workplace, bringing together state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, game-changing innovation programmes and vibrant member communities helping to drive business growth.
The meticulously designed workspace will offer high levels of natural light through floor-to-ceiling glazing, and will feature a workshop area housing over £300k worth of specialist prototyping equipment, tech-enabled meeting rooms, membership coworking areas, studio offices, breakout areas, sound-proof phone booths as well as productivity-focused amenities.
As part of the new innovation hub at The Future Works, Plus X Innovation will also be running a comprehensive business support and networking events programme for the benefit of all members.
The building’s exceptional amenities include a 3,100 sq ft communal roof terrace, which boasts views of Windsor Castle and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity; Lucy’s Kitchen, an all-day café; a double-height reception; and secure basement parking with electric car charging spaces. The building’s comprehensive facilities for cyclists and runners include bicycle parking, luxurious changing rooms with towel service, a drying room and a smart vending machine.
Through the technology platform Smart Spaces, The Future Works also offers a tailor-made workplace app that promotes sustainability and wellness, connecting occupiers to the building’s systems and community. Features include contactless access via smartphone, energy monitoring and occupancy sensors. Live sustainability and air quality feeds are streamed to a screen in reception, helping occupiers understand and reduce their energy usage.
Located next to the town’s new bus station, The Future Works is moments from Slough rail station and the Elizabeth line. It has a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’, the UK’s first Platinum AirScore rating for its indoor air quality, and is WiredCertified Platinum for its connectivity and digital infrastructure.
Tom Smithers, Property Director at AshbyCapital, said:
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Plus X Innovation at The Future Works to create not just high-quality flexible workspace but opportunities for collaboration, networking and business support. Previously named the most productive place in the UK, the Plus X Innovation hub will further embellish Slough’s status as one of the country’s best locations to do business.”
Paul Rostas, Co-CEO at Plus X Innovation, said:
“We’re excited to become part of Slough’s vibrant startup and scaleup scene, offering space specifically designed for the needs of high growth businesses.
“We are particularly pleased to be coming to Slough, due to the diverse business community and talent pool, especially given the town’s proximity to Brunel University. We already have a strong relationship with Brunel, having worked together for over eight years on our internationally renowned hardware accelerator, securing over £5m in funding from Research England, HEFCE and ERDF.
“We can’t wait to launch our latest innovation hub, which will be perfectly complemented by the exceptional amenities already in place for tenants at The Future Works. Our offer, combined with the town’s proximity to London through the Elizabeth line, its diverse talent pool with high-profile universities nearby, and its consistent appearance at the top of rankings of the best places in the UK to live and work will make this a compelling place for small businesses with big ambitions.”
Find out more about the Slough innovation hub and join our waiting list today.