Innovation centre ticks all the boxes for customers

A customer satisfaction survey of firms based at a innovation centre in Southampton has returned overwhelmingly positive results.

Ocean Village Innovation Centre (OVIC) requested feedback on services from 46 different companies working out of the premises by the city’s Ocean Village marina.

Centre Manager Stephen Deller said: “Survey results were overwhelmingly positive – we invited constructive criticism but found ourselves reading lots of lovely comments instead.

“It’s great to hear such positive things from our customers but we will endeavour to make improvements to make sure the customer experience is the best it possibly can be.”

Currently at 90% occupancy, OVIC provides flexible office space solutions for start-ups and growing research and development and technology companies, as well as larger spaces more established businesses.

Stephen added: “OVIC provides an ideal home for fledging companies looking to balance that all-important cash flow, with estimated savings of 26% compared to a traditional office lease in Southampton.

“There are also the benefits of a supportive community, with access to on-site business support, through our Innovation Director and regular networking events – a number of occupiers have even used each other’s services as part of a flourishing ecosystem.

“We’re also a go-to destination for company events and meetings, as well as an overflow facility for firms looking to reduce the footprint of their premises due to the growing trend in hot desking.

Comments in the survey included:

  • “Friendly but professional service with a ‘family’ feel. The centre as a whole is excellent.”
  • “Centre management are very helpful for requests and will accommodate where they can. Main areas of the building are frequently painted and look fresh.”
  • “Professional environment, friendly atmosphere, good location.”
  • “Nice offices and reasonable rent. We love the location. We like the introduction of social events to meet other businesses.”
  • “Generally everything functions as expected on a daily basis. The image presented by the centre and staff is professional yet friendly.”
  • “Receptionist services – they are both brilliant.”

Companies at OVIC include Svitzer Marine, Stellamar, Rika Digital, YA Logistics (UK), Mastervolt, Popcorn Learning Media, DFS Composites, Foresight Data Consultancy, Bracknell Roofing, Business South, DHI Water Environments UK, MJM Marine, 7Bone, Worldwide Cruises, Payflow, James Fisher Prolec, IT@C, OneSpaWorld and Provision Events.

Ocean Village Innovation Centre is managed by Oxford Innovation, the UK’s leading innovation centre operator. With a UK wide network of over 20 centres, Oxford Innovation work on behalf of landlords and property investors, to manage their spaces and build communities for early stage and start-up business to thrive.

Other Oxford Innovation centres in Hampshire are BASE Bordon Innovation Centre, Fareham Innovation Centre and Portsmouth Technopole.