Since 2017, flexible office space operators in India have attracted USD 820 million in private equity (PE) funding, driven by growing demand from corporates, according to Knight Frank. The real estate consultant highlighted significant fluctuations in PE investments, beginning with a rise from USD 25 million in 2017 to USD 49 million in 2018, peaking at USD 113 million in 2019. Investors like CLSA Capital and Peak XV Partners played a key role during this period. However, the sector saw a sharp decline during the pandemic, with investments falling to USD 11 million in 2020 and USD 6 million in 2021.
The report pointed to a resurgence in 2022, when investments surged to USD 595 million, led by deals involving Hillhouse Capital and Actis. Despite this rebound, funding dropped to USD 13 million by 2023, with a single deal worth USD 8 million in 2024.
Knight Frank also reported that flexible office space operators leased an estimated 52.9 million square feet between 2017 and mid-2024, recording a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22%. Chairman Shishir Baijal emphasized India's dynamic commercial real estate market, with demand for innovative, employee-centric workspaces growing as India maintains its position as the fastest-growing major economy.
Baijal also noted that flexible office operators are setting future trends by adopting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and advanced technology.
