The Challenge - New competition, new opportunities, but increased risk

Prior to de-regulation organisations such as E.ON could comfortably plan their capacity requirements over 10-15 years, therefore a new build or a lease option would easily meet their needs. However, the utility market had suddenly become more dynamic overnight which presented increased opportunities but also more risk and consequently a significant shortening of their planning horizon.

E.ON now urgently needed a new contact centre to house over 500 staff, including HR, back office and IT support, as soon as possible. Their existing property portfolio was geared towards stable growth plans, and did not have the ability to react to short-term market fluctuations.

They needed accommodation fast, but they were reluctant to tie themselves into a long-term lease or new build commitment on a planning horizon that was no more than 36 months. Adaptability and responsiveness had become key attributes of any property solution.