FDC backs service office provider’s Bristol move

The latest six-figure package follows a seven-figure investment by FDC in 2024 and comes as Gilbanks is set to expand into the South West with the launch of new 23,500 workspace in the Assembly Bristol development. The latest site is the fifth for Gilbanks, which aims to have 12 sites in the UK by 2030.

Founded by commercial property surveyor Alex Duckett, Gilbanks opened its first workspace at One Park Row in Leeds in 2018, which was followed by a site at 11 York Street, Manchester. The initial FDC investment enabled it to open a second Manchester site, in Gary Neville’s St Michael’s development, and a Birmingham workspace at Five St Philips.

Kathryn Light, Investment Manager at FDC said: “Flexible workspace is a market we know very well at FDC. Gilbanks has an impressive management team and has built a strong niche delivering high-quality flexible workspace to a professional audience. We are pleased to support its continued expansion.”

Alex Duckett, managing director of Gilbanks, said: “The office landscape has shifted towards a more service-led, experience-driven model. At Gilbanks, we take only best-in-class buildings in ultraprime locations and offer a five-star service. The new funding will enable us to bring the Gilbanks’ concept to Bristol as part of our plan to target key cities throughout the UK.”

Squire Patton Boggs provided legal advice to FDC, while LCF Law and Brabners acted for Gilbanks.