Central Working to launch new hubs for tech and innovation in Reading and Slough

Central Working, the coworking office space provider, has announced a new centre for tech and innovation at R+ in Reading city centre.

Launching later this month, Central Working Reading is the company’s tenth location and fourth outside London.

Among Central Working’s success stories are Just Eat and cloud communications platform Twilio, which debuted on the New York Stock Exchange in 2016.

Central Working Reading will connect the city’s business community with Central Working’s network of 3,500 companies across the country, providing Reading with new links to the UK’s enterprise and tech community.

The new Reading club, located directly adjacent to Reading Railway station, will serve more than 250 entrepreneurs.

Catering to high-growth startups and SMEs, members will benefit from transport links, including to Heathrow and the new incoming Crossrail line opening in 2019, as well as access to the wider Central Working network across the UK.

Alongside Reading, Central Working will be opening another site, Central Working Slough. Launching at The Future Works, Central Working Slough will provide space for 350 entrepreneurs, startups and established businesses.

Grant Powell, Central Working CEO, said: “Reading is a major player in the South East’s digital economy, and this site is set to become a hub for the city’s thriving tech and enterprise community.

“The city has proven itself an amazing platform for ambitious businesses and we’re excited to build on this, providing a nurturing environment for growing businesses from across Thames Valley.”

“The digital economy is driven by connections, and Central Working’s raison d’etre is forging valuable links between businesses to spur rapid growth. Reading is set to benefit massively from the increased connectivity offered by Crossrail, and this location will become a gateway between Reading and other tech clusters in London and around the UK.”

The letting agents for Reading’s R+ are Savills, Bray Fox Smith and Lambert Smith Hampton.

Robert Pearson of Savills, said: “The recent improvements at R+ have contributed to these two important lettings at the building. We are pleased with the diverse range of tenants that has been attracted to the scheme, incorporating a listed company and an exciting new coworking concept.

“Central Working has a proven track record in creating thriving, supportive entrepreneurial hubs, and we’re confident this site will play a key role as Reading continues to evolve into one of most dynamic tech clusters.”

Tom Fletcher, director at Lambert Smith Hampton, commented: “The Central Working letting is significant for several reasons. It brings the company that pioneered modern, contemporary workspace to Reading and this alone reflects very well on Reading and R+.

“Furthermore, the auditorium and meeting room facilities will further enhance the building’s amenities alongside the new business lounge and concierge services. Lastly, in a time when corporates are using flexible workspaces like Central Working, for swing space and to connect more closely with SMEs, this letting further increases the opportunity at R+.”