Three South African entrepreneurs have developed an app-based platform that connects people to places of work, collaboration and networking, such as conference rooms, auditoriums and hot desks.
According to co-founder Jason de Villiers, Airbase gives users the flexibility to work away from work and go where their business takes them, allowing them access to the space they need on demand.
"We identified a need in the market for collaborative workspace facilities that are easily accessible to users. The app brings this together. It removes the 'search for space' hassle for the user, while at the same time providing the facility owners with a way to monetise their spare space with maximum ease and flexibility."
The app, available on both PlayStore and iOS, allows users to filter the workspaces available on the platform to fit their geographic location at any point in time, their budget and specific requirements. Once the user decides on a facility, payment is made (via credit card) and the facility is secured for the needed time.
Airbase earns a 7.5% transaction fee on every booking processed through the app. The app is free for users to download and also free for co-working facilities to list their facilities.
De Villiers says there is a growing need for future workspaces in SA. "Flexibility in terms of workplace is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Key drivers of the need for future workplaces are the increasing [number of] entrepreneurs entering the workforce, as well as the growth in freelancers in the workforce. Signing a long-term office lease can also be detrimental to young and old companies in an ever-changing business environment. Through our platform, users are afforded flexibility and options."
Following an official launch earlier this week, the platform has secured 23 facilities so far in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
"These facilities are immediately available to our users and we are in the process of loading spaces in Durban as well. Our plan is to increase the number of properties on the platform to 100 in 2018, providing maximum coverage and flexibility to our users in the major metropolitan areas across the country. Our aim is to focus on SA first, then we would like to expand to Namibia, Botswana, Mauritius, Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya."
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