Latest news with #flexibleworkspaces
Zawya
24-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Najma Walk collaborates with IWG to operate office spaces under Regus Brand
In a new step that reinforces Najma Walk's position as one of the leading mixed-use business destinations in New Cairo, a strategic partnership was announced with International Workplace Group (IWG), the world's largest and fastest-growing provider of flexible workspaces, to manage and operate the project's administrative spaces under the Regus brand. The signing ceremony was attended by senior representatives from both parties, including Mr. Mohamed Kadry, Board Member of Najma Walk; Mr. Mohamed el Namkey, Board Member of Najma Walk; Eng. Mahmoud Shalaby, Board Member of Najma Walk; and Dr. Montaser Abdelbaqi, Board Member of Najma Walk. This collaboration aligns with Najma Walk's broader strategy to attract global partners across diverse sectors of operations and management. Spanning over more than 12,000 sqm, the Najma Walk project is among the most prominent developments in New Cairo, featuring a distinctive architectural design that integrates commercial, medical, and administrative units with exceptional views—positioning it as a prime destination for investors and clients seeking a contemporary, fully integrated business hub. Najma Walk is also distinguished by its integration of the latest artificial intelligence technologies in both design and services, offering users a smart and exceptional experience. This reflects the company's commitment to adopting the latest global standards in sustainable real estate development and creating genuine long-term investment value. The partnership with IWG, a global leader with over 35 years of experience in managing and operating flexible workspaces, represents a key milestone in completing the fully integrated operational model at Najma Walk. This marks the project's third major international collaboration, following previous partnerships with Concorde Hotels & Resorts for hotel unit management and Eterna Clinics for overseeing medical facilities. Commenting on the signing, Board of Directors of Najma Walk stated, 'We are moving forward at an accelerated pace, with excavation and soil preparation already in progress. Construction is advancing ahead of schedule, underscoring our dedication to delivering a project that meets and exceeds the expectations of our investors.' The Board also affirmed, 'The decision to select IWG as our strategic partner for managing the administrative units stems from Najma Walk's holistic vision—aimed at offering a fully integrated experience that adheres to the highest global standards and enhances the project's long-term investment value.' Mr. Youssef Naguib, Executive Director of IWG in Egypt, commented, 'We are pleased to partner with Najma Walk to establish a new flexible workspace under our Regus brand. This comes as part of our plans to build a network of 150 centers across Egypt by 2030, driven by the growing demand for our solutions—particularly in areas like New Cairo, West Cairo, the North Coast, and New Administrative Capital—through the development of new locations that meet the evolving needs of the Egyptian workforce.' Through this partnership, Najma Walk further strengthens its position as a fully integrated project that attracts top global partners and reaffirms the company's ongoing commitment to delivering the highest standards of quality and operations across its various investment components.
Independent Singapore
10-06-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Singapore employers slow to act on office upgrades despite growing worker demand
SINGAPORE: Despite growing demand from employees for more supportive and flexible workspaces, Singaporean industries are reluctant to invest in meaningful office upgrades, according to a new report from Crown Workspace, featured in a Singapore Business Review article. Surveying a representative sample of Singaporean office workers and facilities managers, the study disclosed that only 13% of local firms plan to make alterations to their office setting by 2026. This figure ranks among the lowest worldwide, trailing behind countries such as the UK, India, the U.S., Hong Kong, and New Zealand. Only 5% of Singaporean businesses expect to downsize their office footprint, echoing a predominantly traditional approach in an era where several international companies are reconsidering their space requirements, taking into account the rise of hybrid and remote work trends. The cautious attitude of business owners contrasts with what workers say they need. Crown Workspace's results indicate that 91% of workers worldwide, including those in Singapore, are more motivated to return to the office frequently if the situation better supports their needs. Employees are increasingly seeking structures and environments that foster well-being and nurture productivity, such as quiet areas, customized workstations, and hybrid-friendly arrangements. A commenter from Singapore's healthcare segment reverberated this sentiment, highlighting the need for 'an eco-friendly setting, supported by the latest technology to promote productivity and creativity.' Cultural conservatism and cost sensitivities One clear reason why business owners are reluctant to do office upgrades despite workers' demands is that many of them still view the office as a functional requirement rather than a strategic asset. While technology corporations and MNCs may pave the way in restructuring spaces to enhance ingenuity and well-being, traditional segments in Singapore habitually focus on operational efficiency rather than the workers' experience. This mentality can make managers unwilling to invest in changes that don't demonstrate a fast return on investment (ROI). Second, real estate rates in Singapore are infamously high. Upgrading office spaces—particularly in key areas—can be excessively pricey, and many industries are risk-averse due to prevailing global economic volatility. Finally, while workers increasingly seek out flexibility and wellness-centric design, numerous companies still associate presence with productivity. Thus, they underinvest in the kind of environments that sustain hybrid work, innovation, and mental health. As the world's work culture continues to evolve, Singapore's reluctance to adapt could become a barrier to attracting and retaining talent, particularly among a labour force that now expects more from employment than just a desk and a chair.
Entrepreneur
26-05-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Awfis Names Sumit Lakhani as New CEO in Strategic Leadership Move
You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Awfis Space Solutions, a leading provider of flexible workspaces in India, has announced the elevation of Sumit Lakhani to the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This leadership change marks a key moment in the company's growth, aimed at boosting daily operations and customer-focused strategies. Sumit has been with Awfis since its beginning and has helped shape the brand, customer experience, and marketing strategies. As CEO, he will now lead operations, sales, marketing, and supply acquisition. "I am truly honoured to take on the role of CEO at such a pivotal moment in Awfis' evolution," said Sumit. "From our early startup days to becoming India's leading flex workspace provider, it has been a great journey. I look forward to deepening our impact, scaling new heights, and continuing to deliver value to our clients, partners, and teams." Amit Ramani, Founder and Chairman and Managing Director of Awfis, will continue to guide the company's overall strategy. He will focus on growth, new business ventures like Awfis Transform (Design and Build), and core departments such as finance, HR, legal, and administration. "This leadership transition is a significant step forward in our journey of scaling Awfis into a futuristic, world-class organisation," said Amit. "Sumit has played a key role in Awfis' growth story. His clear thinking, team collaboration, and innovative mindset make him the right person for the role. I'm confident he will lead with excellence." Before joining Awfis, Sumit held senior roles in investment banking, asset management, and IT services at Yes Bank, ST Asset Management, and Tesco. He is an alumnus of S.P. Jain Centre of Management and is known for his strategic thinking and forward-looking ideas. With this leadership change, Awfis is set to strengthen its position as a tech-enabled workspace provider. The company, which operates over 200 centres in 18 cities, plans to expand further into new markets and enhance its offerings for businesses of all sizes. Awfis continues to focus on creating smart, flexible workspaces that meet the changing needs of today's workforce, helping companies thrive in a modern business environment.
