Q&A: Nick Maxwell, Eclat

Two new CBD locations, at 435 Bourke and 120 Collins, while others talk about office weakness. What are you seeing that they aren't?

I think we are seeing two different elements to office spaces. Bigger companies want a smaller footprint with the ability to flex into a 'third space' for project work or for meetings, while smaller companies want to be able to use other assets within the building - meeting spaces, lounges, consult offices, event spaces - which wouldn't traditionally be available to them.

Beyond this, people are looking for experiences to connect with staff, clients, collaborator, and the business community. Through our weekly Eclat Sessions we run team building, motivational, social, and educational events that go far beyond what's in the market – all included in a membership. Most businesses don't have the time or resources to organise a Penfolds wine tasting, systems automation workshop, AI masterclass or be a part of an intimate AFL season launch with players and coaches - at Eclat, we do.

What are members actually paying for that a traditional lease doesn't give them?

A one-stop shop – premium workspaces, fully fitted out with all the technology required and all utilities – Wi-Fi, cleaning, concierge service, printing and each office also comes fit with select furniture. The community events and experiences we curate for our members to support their business and staff continue to drive engagement. We get feedback every day from our members that it's the experiences they are exposed to and how they feel in the space that take the relationship beyond bricks and mortar.

How did you approach the landlords on these deals, and what made the buildings right?

It was more of an introduction and discussion than an approach. Both landlords had specific needs and wants for their buildings and tenants, and after experiencing Eclat, they felt we were right fit.

Both buildings themselves and, most importantly, the landlords involved are the people we want to work with - they know that we understand their vision and they see ours. 120 Collins Street is an iconic feature at the 'Paris End' of Collins St, and the redevelopment they have undertaken is world-class. At 435 Bourke, the Sky garden is a phenomenal space and one that we can't wait to open. The work Cbus has done in the building lobby, EOT and in engaging the Lucas Group will certainly lead to the building's success.

What does your demand tell you about where Melbourne's CBD is heading?

Businesses want premium A-grade buildings, and if your amenities and the quality of your offering aren't premium, it is going to be very hard to compete - people aren't asking for it; they are demanding it. Businesses looking to get employees back into the office must bring unrivalled experiences. Eclat solves that problem for the building's tenants and members alike. Eclat, in partnership with both buildings, solves these issues and challenges that many have faced since COVID.

What from captaining Collingwood shows up in how you run the business?

There's a lot of alignment, but ultimately, it's all about people and relationships. From the building landlords, building management, tenants and Eclat members, our staff know there are different requirements for each business – as there are for Eclat staff. Understanding the needs of each person or business to help achieve their goals is no different from how a footy club runs!

A high-performance mentality also runs through sport and business: constantly looking for improvements, being goal-oriented, and leading by example are things we bring to our members' and staff culture.

What's next after this expansion?

The addition of these two sites to our flagship site in Hawthorn East will be enough for us in the short term. Medium to long term, however, we have ambitions to expand into other states. One thing we are clear on – we won't be expanding too quickly. We want to ensure we maintain the quality that our members and now landlords expect. As we've seen elsewhere, too many sites can result in a dip in the quality of the experience.