What Occupiers Want: How Global Trends Are Showing Up in Waterloo Region
The latest What Occupiers Want 2025 report from Cushman & Wakefield and CoreNet Global confirms what we’re seeing right here in Waterloo Region: cost is still king—but it’s no longer the only priority.
Across our region, occupiers are becoming more strategic about their space. After years of contraction, many businesses are stabilizing their portfolios and focusing on how real estate can better support their people. Flexibility, talent access, and service-rich environments are top of mind for both tenants and landlords.
Key Local Observations:
- Office demand is steady, with fewer companies downsizing and more adapting to hybrid layouts.
- Tenants are asking for more—from collaborative amenities to building services that support culture and retention.
- Flex space and regional hubs are gaining popularity as employers widen their hiring geographies while maintaining a local presence.
- Landlords who invest in experience and service are seeing stronger interest and improved retention.
As we work with local occupiers, it’s clear that decisions today are being shaped by both financial realities and evolving workplace expectations.
For a deeper dive into the global data behind these shifts, explore the full Cushman & Wakefield and CoreNet Global report: View What Occupiers Want 2025
