Enabling development with Occuity

As a medical equipment developer, Occuity has always needed two distinct workspaces - a dedicated lab for development and testing, and office space from which to support and run the business. After first setting up in 2019 the team shared two rooms at The Blade in Pure Offices. As research and development picked up, the lab needed to expand and new operations and marketing team members needed space away from electronic lifetime testing rigs, which operated 24/7.

With strong plans for growth the team reviewed other workspaces in Reading, but quickly concluded that The Blade offered the best option, delivering top-excellent facilities and central location. Occuity moved to larger office space on the fifth floor of The Blade in May 2022. At 4,370 sq ft, the dedicated suite offers the team plenty of space for both its lab and other operations, in a collaborative workspace.

Beverley Thomson, Recruitment and HR Manager at Occuity explains the continuing draw of The Blade: “The Blade is such an iconic building and offers great working spaces within a contemporary, light and spacious environment. Its high-quality finishes create a valuable first impression for any visitors or new recruits – something very important to a business on such a rapid growth journey. We have to attract the best talent and being able to offer a great place to work is a real benefit when candidates are considering whether to join us.”

Occuity has enjoyed notable success and following a successful crowdfunding round in 2021 raised over £2.85m; the largest ever MedTech raise on the UKs leading crowdfunding platform. Now 35 full time team members are based at Occuity’s offices at The Blade, and the company has continued to grow.

It’s important that we offer our team the right space

Dan Daly, CEO at Occuity explains how important The Blade is to the team: “The central location means our employees can get here by car, bike or public transport. And we’re only a minute away from Forbury Park, allowing people to enjoy lunch outside on a nice day or just get out for some fresh air to recharge. It’s important that we offer our team the right space which ensures they are comfortable, happy and have all the tools and equipment they need.”

With a predominately open plan office Occuity’s workspace offers greater collaboration and an easier flow of communication between departments, helping improving efficiency and creating a more social working environment – something important to many of the team, especially post-pandemic. The larger space also enables after work social gatherings and events.

A strong and vibrant business community

Dedicated meeting rooms ensure the team has exclusive access to communal space throughout the day. The fully equipped kitchen and dining area also offers employees the opportunity to eat together in a relaxed and comfortable environment.  

And the additional benefit of a strong and vibrant business community is an added bonus too. Robin Taylor, CTO at Occuity explains the value of being part of The Blade’s network: “There are a wide range of businesses here from start-ups to international companies, contributing to a vibrant community feeling. We feel we’re playing our part in a successful business story – lots of social and communal areas create a real buzz and mean that networking is effortless too.”

Superstars @ The Blade

Any stars in The Blade team that you’d give a shout out to?  

Since occupying The Blade we’ve only ever had positive experiences with all of the management team; they’re approachable, professional, and friendly. All these qualities really do contribute to a great working environment for all occupiers and staff. One employee that particularly stands out is Kevin - he always has a smile on his face and is happy to help with any query.

View From….

What’s your favourite view from The Blade?

Definitely the top floor! With The Blade being the tallest building in Reading, the quick elevator trip up rewards you with a panoramic view of the city which can’t be found anywhere else.

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Occuity At-A-Glance

Moved in: 2019

Space: Floor 5

Sector: Medical Equipment