New research shows connectivity overtakes pricing and amenities when making leasing decisions for office space.
January 14, 2025
A recent study commissioned by Boldyn Networks (Boldyn) reveals that Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity are among the most important considerations for business leaders when choosing their next premises. The report ‘Location. Location. Connectivity.’ surveyed over 2,000 business leaders across the US and UK and found that connectivity now outranks price and amenities when it comes to leasing decisions. While location still ranks as the top factor, Wi-Fi connectivity is a close second, followed by cellular connectivity. And with a staggering number of business leaders (79% in the US/77% in the UK) looking to move to a new building within the next five years, these findings reflect the growing importance of reliable connectivity for commercial tenants.
These findings represent a significant shift compared to the top factors business leaders prioritized when they initially selected their current premises. While location and Wi-Fi connectivity remain at the top, excellent mobile reception has now overtaken pricing as a main consideration.
The significance of connectivity extends beyond just leasing decisions. The report also reveals that four in five business leaders surveyed believe that seamless connectivity has a direct impact on employee productivity and feel that poor connectivity results in time wasted each day. In fact, connectivity is so important to day-to-day operations that nearly every respondent (96% US/94% UK) said they’re willing to pay more in rent to get more robust and reliable connectivity at their premises.
“To meet tenants’ connectivity expectations, today’s leading property owners are prioritizing network infrastructure. Exceptional connectivity fuels business operations, enhances productivity, and boosts employee satisfaction,” stated Jason Caliento, Chief Commercial Officer, US. “At Boldyn we are proud to collaborate with visionary real estate owners and developers across the country who understand the value of investing in advanced network solutions. Together, we design, build, and operate customized network solutions that cater to their unique connectivity needs for the long term.”
The demand for smart building technologies is also on the rise. Nine out of ten US and UK business leaders agree that smart building systems would be good for their business and would improve the tenant experience. Features like temperature control, smart apps for facilities management, and sensors for parking and staff traffic are becoming essential. These technologies improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and provide a more comfortable and convenient experience for tenants and staff. Property owners need to ensure their buildings are ready to adopt these smart systems to stay competitive and meet the growing demands of their occupants.
The global smart building market is expected to reach $568.02 billion by 2032, driven by the need for sustainable, tech-enabled spaces. With real estate responsible for 40% of global carbon emissions, smart technologies—reliant on robust connectivity—will play a crucial role in creating a greener future.
“With the UK driving towards all new buildings being net-zero by 2030, smarter, connected buildings will become a significant way for business leaders to reduce their carbon footprint, optimize energy use and improve operational efficiency” said Gearoid Collins, Commercial Director, Real Estate, Enterprise, Windfarms, UK & Ireland. “And employee expectations are changing towards smart and sustainable workplaces. We’re placing great emphasis on ensuring that business connectivity can support new services and applications that will change how we work today and tomorrow.”
Connectivity is crucial for businesses today, supporting their growth and strategic initiatives. As companies increasingly adopt AI and other data-intensive technologies, reliable connectivity will become even more critical. To attract and retain tenants, property owners must proactively address their connectivity needs and ensure their buildings are equipped for both current and future demands.
For more insights, read the latest report from Boldyn Networks, Location. Location. Connectivity.
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Notes to editor
The research was commissioned by Boldyn Networks and was conducted by Lonergan Research in accordance with the ISO 20252 standard. Lonergan Research surveyed 1,011 American and 1,000 UK Business Leaders 18+. Surveys were distributed throughout America and the UK including both capital city and non-capital city areas. The survey was conducted online amongst members of a permission-based panel, between 31 May and 8 June 2024. After interviewing, data was weighted to the latest population estimates sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, ONS, NRS and NISRA.
About Boldyn Networks
Boldyn Networks is one of the world’s largest neutral host providers, delivering the advanced shared network infrastructure needed for a smart, inclusive, and sustainable future. It combines the combined scale and expertise of industry-leading companies with a single purpose: to unlock the power of an interconnected future. From interconnected transit, venues and enterprises, smart cities, next-generation and bespoke private networks to smart campuses Boldyn enables new possibilities in the way people live, work and play. Bringing connectivity to the most complex environments. Our portfolio is harnessing fiber, advancing 4G/LTE, accelerating 5G, preparing for 6G–and looking beyond to the next breakthroughs. Our global operations span North America, Europe, and Asia. Boldyn Networks. Reimagine tomorrow. Transform today.
Learn more at: www.boldyn.com
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