News that The We Group is preparing to list is a sure sign that flexible workspace and co - working is part of the mainstream , according to Simon Williams , CMO of The Instant Group . Research conducted by the company reveals that WeWork operates 2.2 % of co - working space globally , and in the UK and Europe — its leading markets — they operate 2.3 % , beaten only by IWG . Demand for flexible space is growing at a rate of 25 % per annum , creating ample opportunity for WeWork to continue to grow . Williams said . “One of the latest ‘unicorns’ to set out its intention to IPO, with an expected valuation of over $47 billion based on further SoftBank investment in January this year, it is more evidence not only of confidence in this market but also in the brand to take advantage of changing client demand from leases to ‘flexible’ workspace.” However , with more than 5,000 providers globally , many operating just one or two centres there will inevitably be consolidation in the sector he describes .
News that The We Group is preparing to list is a sure sign that flexible workspace and co - working is part of the mainstream , according to Simon Williams , CMO of The Instant Group . Research conducted by the company reveals that WeWork operates 2.2 % of co - working space globally , and in the UK and Europe — its leading markets — they operate 2.3 % , beaten only by IWG . Demand for flexible space is growing at a rate of 25 % per annum , creating ample opportunity for WeWork to continue to grow . Williams said . However , with more than 5,000 providers globally , many operating just one or two centres there will inevitably be consolidation in the sector he describes .