The
computer industry has long recognised that the basic hardware is merely
where business begins. Customer support services, peripherals and software
products are major sources of revenue, long after the original purchase
has been completed.
The
same applies to buildings.
It is now appreciated that tenant support and on-site services differentiate
property products. A strong service offering makes a property more attractive
to occupiers at the marketing stage, and more sustainable for users after
it is let.
With growing interest in the soft aspects of property,
and cultural shifts to greater work-life balance, the potential for services
that add value to property assets is increasingly recognised.