Venue-finding start up Hire Space expands in Manchester

Hire Space, the venue finding start-up backed by Karen Hanton MBE, has opened a Manchester office ahead of a full city launch in September.

It is the first phase of the ambitious company’s wider UK rollout, which is due to unfold over the course of 2015.

The website currently serves as a marketing platform for 1,200 London venues, including Westminster Abbey, the Copper Box Arena and the Southbank Centre.

It has processed over £15 million worth of enquiries since its launch in April 2013.

The company is backed by the founders of UK dotcom success story TopTable.com, which sold to OpenTable in 2010 for $55 million.

Hire Space co-founder Edward Poland said “Manchester was always first on our expansion list for its vibrant events scene and characterful architecture. There are a wealth of unique, fascinating spaces and we’re excited about the prospect of showcasing them.”

Hire Space started as a way to drive revenue in schools and other public sector spaces, and is now used by leading businesses and the public to find unusual venues for events, product launches, conferencing and promotional activities. Its clients include Google, Accenture, Topshop, JP Morgan and the BBC.

Manchester venues already signed up to the platform include EventCity, Gorton Monastery and The Lowry Theatre. The website aims to have 200 live venues for its official launch on 15th September.