Support from Allica Bank has helped award-winning Bristol workspace provider invest in upgraded facilities, evolving workstyles, and bold new branding.
Bristol-based flexible workspace brand DeskLodge has secured new funding from Allica Bank, supporting a major workspace refresh and bold rebrand aligned to the evolving needs of modern businesses. With two vibrant locations in Bristol, including its flagship sites in Beacon Tower and DeskLodge House near Temple Meads, DeskLodge is a proud part of the city’s thriving business community.
“This refresh is about more than paint and furniture,” said founder Tom Ball, named Business Leader of the Year at the South West Business Leader Awards. “We’re adapting to how people really want to work – and creating a brand that reflects the confidence and creativity of our community.”
With more teams now using offices part-time, perhaps one or two days a week, DeskLodge is rethinking how space can support real connection. The refresh includes upgraded meeting rooms and breakout areas, better tech (including monitors on every desk), and vibrant zones designed for spontaneous catchups and collaboration.
DeskLodge’s member-first model is paying off. The business recently became a certified B Corp and was named one of the Sunday Times’ Top Ten Places to Work, reflecting a thriving, values-led community.
“We have an obsession with making our spaces productive,” said Tom. “In our offices, teams get more done. When people love us, they really love us.”
“Most competitors have stepped away from freelancers, but we believe the whole ecosystem works better when everyone’s in the mix,” added Tom. “There’s real buzz, real momentum. It’s got West Wing energy.”
Critical to DeskLodge’s future was refinancing its existing borrowing to reduce costs and reinvest into its refresh and member experience. Tom secured the deal with Allica Bank, one of the UK’s fastest-growing fintechs.
“We weren’t just after a loan, we were looking for a long-term partner who believed in what we’re building,” said Tom. “With Allica, we got that. I had a phone call within 30 seconds of enquiring, and the application was sorted in 24 hours. That just doesn’t happen with most banks.”
Tom Hine, Allica Bank’s Bristol-based Relationship Manager, said:
“DeskLodge is a brilliant example of a business that’s deeply connected to its community and constantly evolving to meet the needs of its members. From the moment I met Tom, it was clear he had a strong vision and a real passion for what he’s building here in Bristol. DeskLodge is exactly the kind of forward-thinking, community-led business we love to support, ambitious, grounded, and built for the future.”
Tom recently joined Allica Bank as part of its continued investment in growing its team of Relationship Managers across the South West.