Brussels, July 2025 — In a context where efficiency, flexibility, and cost control have become top priorities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), shared offices are enjoying unprecedented popularity. More than just a passing trend, this shift reflects a profound transformation in our relationship with the workplace. More and more Belgian SMEs are now choosing coworking spaces or business centers to host their teams. Here’s a closer look.
A matter of cost, but not only that
The main motivation is often economic. Renting a traditional private office in a major city like Brussels involves significant fixed costs: long-term commercial lease, furniture, maintenance, utilities, and additional services. Coworking centers allow these costs to be pooled while offering access to high-quality spaces.
SMEs can thus benefit from a prestigious address — Avenue Louise, the Schuman district, Mérode — at a much more affordable rate, while enjoying included services: reception, meeting rooms, high-speed internet, coffee area, green spaces, bike parking, etc. Budget optimization is key, but it’s only the tip of the iceberg.
A changing company culture
The post-Covid work environment has radically changed habits. Flexibility, autonomy, hybrid work: employees now want the ability to alternate between working from home and being in the office without rigid constraints. In this context, shared offices offer an ideal solution.
In other words, the office becomes a service rather than a fixed location. It adapts to needs, schedules, and assignments. This flexibility is a major asset for growing SMEs that face fluctuations in staff or projects.
A tool for recruitment and retention
Beyond operational efficiency, coworking spaces also serve as a way to attract and retain talent. Young professionals place great importance on their work environment. Working in a bright, well-located space with a dynamic and international atmosphere is a real advantage in the recruitment process.
Coworking centers in Brussels, such as those run by Topos, fit perfectly into this logic: they combine the charm of Brussels townhouses with modern standards of comfort and connectivity. A professional business card for the company — and a source of pride for its employees.
Synergies between companies
Another commonly cited benefit is the stimulation among residents. Unlike a traditional office building where each company operates in isolation, business centers encourage encounters, collaboration, and even co-creation.
Proximity between businesses of various sizes fosters a real ecosystem. Some service providers, suppliers, or partners frequently cross paths in shared spaces. This promotes spontaneous cooperation or idea sharing.
A model for the future?
The figures speak for themselves. According to a study published in May 2025 by Cushman & Wakefield, the occupancy rate of coworking spaces in Brussels rose by 18% in one year. And nearly 30% of users are now SMEs with fewer than 50 employees.
The trend seems here to stay, especially as the spaces themselves are evolving: some offer daily passes, flexible access packages, or even turnkey legal and administrative services (BCE registration, VAT, etc.).
Shared offices are thus emerging as a solution well-suited to the needs of SMEs in 2025, combining flexibility, visibility, comfort, and cost control. A pragmatic — and strategic — choice.
