Workspace Group PLC (LSE:WKP) reported a pick-up in lettings in its 2021/22 financial year so far, led by staff coming back to work at small businesses.
The government’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) furlough support scheme ended last month and ahead of that Workspace said activity had been picking up again.
Over the most recent quarter to end September, the flexible office specialist said there was an average of 935 enquiries and 138 lettings per month while the rent roll rose 2.1% to £87.3mln.
Occupancy is now 85.6% compared to 81.9% on 31 March 2021 while rental collection improved with 97% of rent due for the second quarter collected to date, it said.
Space utilisation by the end of the September quarter was peaking at 56% of pre-COVID levels mid-week and 52% over the week as a whole.
Graham Clemett, Workspace’s chief executive, said: "It's great to see London coming back to life, and our latest utilisation and occupancy figures show that London's SMEs are leading the way back to the office and are optimistic about the future.
“These are positive signs of momentum.
“The pandemic has made people appreciate that not all offices are created equal.
“More than ever, the right office space in a great location with strong sustainability credentials and flexibility really matters to our customers and their employees.”