London businesses are increasingly seeking office space that can be secured and occupied in a matter of weeks rather than months, according to new analysis from managed office specialist, MetSpace.
Analysis of 36 completed office transactions between February 2024 and July 2026 found that three-quarters (75%) of transactions completed within one month, while more than one in four (28%) transactions completed within two working weeks. Average turnaround times stood at just 18 working days, and the fastest transaction completed in just one working day.
MetSpace’s most recent transactions also completed around a quarter faster than the preceding cohort of deals (most recent 12 deals vs the previous 12), suggesting occupiers are accelerating decision-making and prioritising operationally ready workspace.
Notably, some of the fastest transactions were also among the largest, including an over 7,000 sq ft office requirement completed in just eight working days and two separate circa 5,000 sq ft deals signed within eight and 10 working days.
The findings reflect a broader shift in occupier priorities.
MetSpace has observed that occupiers increasingly want workspace that can support their teams immediately, without the delays associated with traditional fit-outs and extensive reconfiguration works.
As a result, demand is growing for thoughtfully managed and pre-fitted offices that offer greater certainty and faster occupation with reduced operational disruption.
Ashley Diamond, COO of MetSpace, commented: “The most interesting thing we’re seeing is that speed is no longer just a priority for smaller occupiers. Some of our fastest transactions have involved requirements of more than 4,700 sq ft. Businesses increasingly want certainty and operational readiness from day one, rather than spending months redesigning space before they can move in.”
Diamond added that the growth of managed office space and professionally pre-fitted workplaces has helped shorten decision-making periods significantly.
“Pre-fitted doesn’t mean one-size-fits-all as we can still quickly accommodate adjustments such as additional meeting rooms, branding elements, or layout changes, before an occupier moves in.
The difference is that those changes are typically refinements rather than wholesale redesigns. The heavy lifting has already been done. Good workspace should remove complexity rather than create it.”
Methodology
MetSpace analysed 36 completed office transactions across its London managed office portfolio between February 2024 and July 2026. Analysis measured the period between an occupier’s first viewing and signed agreement. Percentages and average completion times are based on completed transactions only.
