In recent years, the UK office leasing landscape has undergone a significant transformation. Traditionally, landlords would offer a Category A (CAT A) fit-out—a blank canvas featuring basic finishes like raised floors and suspended ceilings. Tenants would then invest in a Category B (CAT B) fit-out, customizing the space with partitions, furniture, and branding to suit their needs.
However, the post-pandemic era has ushered in a new preference: the CAT A+ fit-out. Also known as “plug-and-play” or “tenant-ready” spaces, CAT A+ offers a middle ground, providing fully fitted offices that require minimal additional investment from tenants. This shift benefits both landlords and tenants, streamlining the leasing process and reducing downtime.
What is a CAT A+ Fit-Out?
A CAT A+ fit-out bridges the gap between CAT A and CAT B. It includes:
- Fully fitted spaces with desks, meeting rooms, and breakout areas
- Installed IT infrastructure, including Wi-Fi and data cabling
- Kitchenettes and restrooms ready for use
- Basic décor and furnishings, allowing tenants to move in immediately
This approach caters to businesses seeking flexibility and speed, eliminating the need for extensive fit-out periods.
Benefits for Landlords
- Reduced Void Periods: By offering ready-to-occupy spaces, landlords can attract tenants more quickly, minimizing the time properties remain vacant.
- Premium Rents: CAT A+ spaces can command higher rents due to their convenience and reduced upfront costs for tenants.
- Competitive Advantage: In a market where flexibility is key, providing plug-and-play offices sets landlords apart, appealing to a broader range of potential tenants.
- Sustainability: Reusing existing fit-outs reduces waste, aligning with environmental goals and reducing the carbon footprint associated with office refurbishments.
Benefits for Tenants
- Cost Savings: Tenants avoid significant capital expenditure on fit-outs, allowing them to allocate resources elsewhere.
- Immediate Occupancy: With infrastructure and furnishings in place, businesses can move in and start operations without delay.
- Flexibility: Shorter lease terms and adaptable spaces cater to the evolving needs of modern businesses.
- Reduced Hassle: Managing a fit-out project can be time-consuming. CAT A+ spaces eliminate this burden, offering a turnkey solution.
Market Trends
The demand for CAT A+ spaces is on the rise:
- In London, there’s been a 25% increase in demand for CAT A+ spaces over two years, covering approximately 20 million sq ft.
- Landlords like Great Portland Estates are investing in fully managed offices, offering amenities such as yoga studios and communal kitchens to attract tenants.
Our Services
At Intrabuild, we specialize in transforming office spaces to meet the evolving demands of the market. Our services include:
- Design and Fit-Out: Creating CAT A+ spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Cost Planning: Providing gold, silver, and bronze fit-out options to align with your investment strategy.
- Pre-Lease Surveys: Assessing spaces before tenant departure to identify opportunities for retaining existing fit-outs, saving time and resources.
- Marketing Support: Supplying visuals and layouts to showcase the potential of your space to prospective tenants.
By embracing the CAT A+ model, landlords can enhance the appeal of their properties, attract quality tenants swiftly, and achieve better returns on investment.
For more information on how we can assist in your next office transformation, contact us today.
