Well-being is reshaping coworking. Explore the data behind this shift and how the WELL Coworking Rating helps operators stand out and secure high-value occupiers.
Work isn’t just about showing up—it’s about feeling good, performing your best, and being in an environment that fuels success. As businesses increasingly prioritise employee well-being, flexible office operators are stepping up, transforming workspaces into hubs of health and productivity. The payoff? Higher utilisation, happier and more productive members, and a boost in desk rates.
Let’s explore why the well-being movement is reshaping the coworking industry, highlight compelling data that proves its impact, and break down the WELL Coworking Rating—an industry rating that’s helping operators attract premium-paying occupiers.
The Rising Value of Health and Well-Being in Flexible Offices
Occupiers are increasingly seeking work environments that prioritise health and well-being. This shift is driven by a growing awareness of the benefits that such environments offer, including improved employee satisfaction, reduced absenteeism, and enhanced productivity. As a result, flexible office operators are investing in health and well-beings initiatives to meet this demand and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
Further, investing in health and well-being strategies yields tangible benefits for operators. According to research by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), implementing evidence-based health interventions in workspaces can lead to a 10-point increase in median productivity and a 28% rise in overall employee satisfaction. These enhancements not only improve the work experience but also justify higher desk rates, as occupiers are willing to invest more in spaces that support their employees' well-being.
Additional research underscores the financial and operational advantages of well-being-focussed workspaces. Studies have shown that employees in environments with natural elements such as natural woods, stones and plants report 15% higher levels of well-being, 6% increased productivity, and 15% more creativity. These factors contribute to a more engaged workforce and can lead to higher occupancy rates and desk premiums for operators.
The WELL Coworking Rating: Elevating Workspace Standards
For flexible office operators looking to boost revenue and attract premium-paying occupiers, well-being isn’t just a trend—it’s a business strategy. The WELL Coworking Rating provides a clear roadmap for creating workspaces that prioritise health while driving financial returns. By meeting rigorous health and well-being benchmarks, operators can differentiate their spaces, increase member satisfaction, and command higher desk rates.
Developed by IWBI and The Instant Group, the WELL Coworking Rating serves as a trusted industry standard for health-forward workspaces—and the first of its kind designed exclusively for the coworking industry. It evaluates nearly 50 features across 10 concepts, including air and water quality, lighting, thermal comfort, physical fitness, and nutrition.
Achieving this rating signals to occupiers that a workspace meets top tier well-being standards, making it an attractive choice for businesses that value employee well-being and productivity.
Key Features of the WELL Coworking Rating
- Restorative Places: Designated areas that promote relaxation and mental rejuvenation, helping to reduce stress and enhance focus.
- Productive Work Environments: Spaces optimised for concentration and efficiency, incorporating ergonomic furniture and minimising distractions.
- Health-Promoting Food and Movement: Availability of nutritious food options and facilities that encourage physical activity, supporting overall health.
- Air and Water Quality: Ensuring clean air and water through advanced filtration systems, contributing to better health outcomes.
- Maintenance and Operations Policies: Implementing protocols that uphold hygiene and safety standards, fostering a secure environment.
- Well-Being Education and Engagement: Offering programmes and resources that educate members on health topics, promoting a culture of well-being.
- Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and practises that enhance health and well-being in the workspace.
By integrating these features, flexible office operators can create environments that not only support the well-being of their members but also command higher desk rates. Occupiers can recognise the value of such spaces and be willing to invest in environments that prioritise their employees' health.
The Business Care for Wellness-Focussed Workspaces
Emphasising well-being in workspace design and operations offers several advantages:
- Boost Revenue: The rating positions operators to demonstrate investments in health and well-being strategies, which are proven to deliver over 7.5% higher desk rates.
- Attracting Premium Tenants: Companies are increasingly prioritising employee health and seek spaces that align with their values, leading them to pay a premium for such environments.
- Competitive Differentiation: Achieving certifications like the WELL Coworking Rating sets operators apart in the market, showcasing a commitment to excellence in health and well-being.
- Enhanced Member Productivity: Health-focussed features contribute to improved employee performance, which can translate to business success for occupiers
Conclusion
Well-being initiatives are more than just a trend; they are a strategic investment that yields significant returns. Flexible office operators who prioritise health and well-being not only enhance the experience for their members but also position themselves to achieve higher desk rates and offer a more compelling brand for both tenants and potential landlord partners.
The WELL Coworking Rating provides a clear framework for implementing these initiatives, ensuring that workspaces meet the highest standards of health and well-being.
Do these well-being features resonate with your organisation's values? Is your workspace aligned with the health-forward standards that today's occupiers demand? Explore the WELL Coworking Rating and discover how you can elevate your space to meet these expectations. Get started today.
