News Release - 27thNovember
DUKE STUDIOS REVEAL EXPANSION AND SECOND SPACE IN LEEDS
Duke Studios in Leeds have revealed the exciting news that it is opening a second creative workspace as early as January 2015.
The 10,000 SQ FT space is to be named Duke Studios Sheaf Street and is housed in a former belt factory. It will feature creative office space designed in conjunction with the new tenants themselves and house a suite of meeting rooms plus a large dedicated events space. Several new jobs will be created.
Duke Studios began life some three years ago as the brainchild of entrepreneurs Laura Wellington and James Abbott-Donnelly. A forward thinking co-working concept aimed at getting businesses collaborating in an open plan, inspirational, creative office environment. The business has grown at a steady rate and they now have two employees full time in Clint Sheldon and Rosanna Martlew.
Their current home, some 6,500 SQ FT in the self proclaimed Arts Quarter of Leeds and Munro House soon filled up. Offering a mix of coworking, single desk rental and a mix of different sized studio offices. Duke Studios now has over forty-five businesses ranging from digital agencies to architects, copywriters and even an acting agency, which has acquainted in a combined turnover of over £1.75m. It was through the growth of two companies in particular that has lead to Duke Studios Sheaf Street. After a long search they are working with King and Co who are helping to restore the belt factory to a beautiful space but they haven't ruled out further funding models going forward.
Laura Wellington Quote:
"A second site will mean we can offer a variety of sizes of studios and facilitate business growth in the city. Sheaf St will become the next stage for companies outgrowing the current space as well as attracting larger companies. Over the last three years at Munro House and looking at the market we feel that there is a need to still network and look after growing companies before they then move on to take their own spaces across the City. The time where companies are growing up to 15 (people) can be a fragile one and we want to ensure that the companies will grow in a sustainable manner to ensure that they then go on to become large thriving companies that will contribute to the growth of the economy in the City of Leeds as well as adding more kudos and vibrancy to the sector."
King & Co (Landlord) Quote:
"King & Co are delighted to be assisting Duke Studios with their expansion. We share a common vision of a changing market place. Light-footed, tech savvy industries are growing at a rapid pace. The practical requirements of a physical base are now secondary to a customer that prioritises inspirational space and a comprehensive service.
Duke Studios are at the forefront of this changing dynamic. Their contribution to business in the city is immeasurable. There is a wealth of entrepreneurial talent that needs to be retained if Leeds is going to remain competitive. Pioneering companies like Duke Studios that are passionate about the service they offer and in touch with the requirements of this growing industry need to be supported. Sheaf Street is a rewarding project on an number of levels and Duke Studios have been a great partner. We wish to continue our investment in the city by bringing forward other imaginative projects and are actively seeking new opportunities."
James Abbott-Donnelly Quote:
"This next stage for our business is really exciting, not just for the workspace offer, Sheaf St provides an opportunity for us to create more amazing meeting spaces, not just the run of the mill beige boxes all too commonly found. I'm most looking forward to having a dedicated event space. It's great that we will be able to respond to the demand and facilitate a whole range of events from large business meetings to cultural happenings and beer festivals in a space that aims to be the antidote the corporate hotel market."
Looking for a new office? Register your interest at the brand new Duke Studios website: http://duke-studios.com
Duke Studio Facts:
Duke Studios along with their residents have a combined turnover of over £1.75m
Duke Studios currently houses 89 individuals spread across 46 creative businesses
70% of businesses in Duke have grown by over 50% in either turnover, headcount or floor space since being in Duke.
Duke Studios has a partnership with Leeds College of Art. LCA rent a studio that they then provide to recent graduates free of charge for 6 months. During this time its successful applicants are mentored by Duke Studios on an intensive program that's created specifically for them. Recent success stories include Passport and Hungry Sandwich Club.
Awards:
Duke Studios shortlisted or RICS award 2013 - Commercial and Design and Innovation Categories
Duke Studios longlisted for RIBA award 2013
Pure DC shortlisted for Commercial Interior Designer - Northern Designer Awards 2014
Passport won award - Best in Digital Print - Antalis Annual Review 2014
Hungry Sandwich Club won awards - High commended YCN award - D&AD New Blood Best in Show 2014
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Any further enquiries please contact Simon Fogal. I Like Press - simon@ilikepress.co.uk - 07736937462
Attached image is of Duke Studios team. L to R: Rosanna Martlew, Clint Sheldon, Laura Wellington and James Abbott-Donnelly
LINKS:
Web - http://duke-studios.com/
Twitter - @dukestudioleeds
Facebook - /dukestudiosleeds
Instagram - @dukestudioleeds