BLOCK has secured a £6 million investment from the Gent Family Investment Company and other investors to support the next phase of its growth, marking a major milestone for the South West-founded flexible workspace operator, as it takes its award-winning offering onto the national stage.
Founded in Devon in 2021, BLOCK launched its first workspace at Plymouth’s historic Royal William Yard. Since then, the business has grown rapidly across the region, opening successful sites in Exeter, Taunton and Bristol and establishing itself as one of the South West’s fastest-growing flexible workspace providers. The business is now a multi award-winning operator, recognised for both its innovative and flexible way of working, design-led spaces, and strong commercial performance.
The £6 million investment enables BLOCK to fund its national expansion plans. In 2026, the business will open new flagship sites in Manchester and Birmingham, taking the brand into two of the UK’s most dynamic regional cities. The new locations will be housed in landmark buildings including Sunlight House in Manchester and One Colmore Square in Birmingham, with openings planned for spring and summer. There is also a strong pipeline of other sites BLOCK will be looking to expand into as it rolls out its national growth plan.
Ben Cheriton, Founder and CEO of BLOCK Workspace, commented: “This is an incredibly exciting moment for BLOCK. We have found the right funding partners to support the next phase of our journey, and this investment allows us to take a business that was born in the South West and scale it nationally.
“We are grateful to everyone involved in the process. With this investment secured, we are now focused on delivering multiple new openings this year and beyond, while continuing to push boundaries in the flexible workspace sector and helping more businesses access exceptional office and coworking spaces.”
The transaction highlights the strength of the South West professional services ecosystem. BLOCK worked closely with regional advisers to complete the deal, with legal advice provided by Michelmores and tax advice provided by Bishop Fleming. Isca Ventures managed the investment process and Ashfords provided legal advice to the investors.
Mark Champion, Partner at Isca Ventures, added: “BLOCK is a great opportunity for Gent FIC and Isca Ventures to invest in a thriving flex workspace provider, with an excellent reputation, quality management team and huge potential for growth. We are delighted to be working alongside Ben and his team, and look forward to being in for the journey and supporting the business to deliver its ambitious growth plans.”
Tim Gent, CEO of Gent Family Investment Company added: “BLOCK presents an opportunity to be involved with a driven and committed board that take pride in delivering innovative and dynamic solutions in a fast developing market. We have been impressed with the level of knowledge and expertise within the team and look forward to a healthy and exciting growth cycle.”
