Bosses behind one of Shropshire’s newest training venues has launched a “try before you join” scheme for businesses to find out what services they need.
Toby Poulsom, principal at The Academy in Shrewsbury said he had launched the “hot desk” service for people to discover how much use it was to them before they signed up.
The training and business centre on Old Potts Way is now open on a drop-in basis which includes the use of a free Wi-Fi hot desk facility; meeting rooms when not already pre-booked and free hot and cold drinks.
“What is vital to the team here at The Academy is that our members’ businesses grow through the use of our facilities and the benefits we offer.
“The hot desk is one of a number of options members get to choose from when they join us.
“Other options include a training package, a business development package and a meeting room package,” Mr Poulsom said.
“This flexibility is important as we realise not everyone wants or needs the same things.
“We cannot tell businesses what is most valuable to them as they know their business better than anyone else so it is for us to listen to what they need.
“We are always open to ideas whatever they may be.”
Mr Poulsom said they had already had a fantastic response from the business community with a busy programme developing at The Academy.
“Obviously our members enjoy many more benefits than the hot desk facility but this just gives people the chance to escape their normal working environment to see what we offer.
“Although if people enjoy the idea of hot desking and find it is beneficial to them, then we are offering very competitive rates which start at just £29 a month for five days access – although these limits will only be imposed at particularly busy periods so at quiet times you may even find you are running your own office.”
Mr Poulsom said he had also launched a feedback poll on what features business owners in Shropshire want and need.
“We will use this feedback from the business community to expand the range of products and services we have on offer in order to build on the fantastic training and business centre we have already launched here in Shrewsbury,” he added.
The Academy free drop-in hot desk facility will be available to try several mornings a week throughout June and July.