‘Super Seven’ take root at flourishing innovation centre

A series of summer signings has seen an innovation centre for small-to-medium sized enterprises in the South record 92% occupancy.

Of the 70 offices at Ocean Village Innovation Centre, Southampton, just five are available.

Centre manager Stephen Deller said: “The demand this summer for commercial space has been phenomenal, with occupiers drawn to a healthy ecosystem of companies which support one another through trade or advice.

“There have been seven signings, including one firm expanding its footprint on site, taking occupancy to 92%, with just five of the 70 offices available.

“With more than 40 companies on site, and external firms, we’re also seeing growing demand for our hired meeting rooms.

“A number of occupiers have taken root here after first hiring the meeting facilities – they’ve seen first-hand the vibrancy, energy and go-getting attitude which exemplify the businesses here at Ocean Village Innovation Centre.

“Another draw is that we provide, through our in-house Innovation Director Richard May, business planning advice, coaching and mentoring.”

Latest companies to move in are recruitment firm Bond Williams, Bracknell Roofing, Timberflow, MJM Marine, Prolec and JK Digital Consulting, with DHI Water Environments doubling to 12 work stations.

Other occupiers include maritime companies Svitzer Marine, Marine Space and YA Logistics UK, business organisation Business South, employment solutions specialists Stellamar, CER Education Recruitment and Eden Brown, Mastervolt, an expert in electrical system and component technology, UBS Wealth Management and law advisers Rowe-Sparkes Partnership and Tennyson Chambers.

Earlier this year Stellamar signed up to a further year, having grown over 30 months from two desks to five open-plan offices with 11 staff.

Ocean Village Innovation Centre provides offices and meeting facilities for start-ups, early-stage firms and outsourced businesses in a supportive easy-in, easy-out environment, with all-inclusive packages and competitive prices.

Oxford Innovation operates OVIC and 24 other innovation centres across the UK, including three others in Hampshire – Fareham Innovation Centre, Portsmouth Technopole and BASE Bordon.