REM has let a further 15,700 sq ft of office space to fin-tech company Sapphire Systems. The global provider of financial and business software solutions will occupy the north side of level 9.
Established in 1993, Sapphire Systems is a leading global provider of Enterprise Resource Planning and financial management solutions. I As a result of continued growth, Sapphire now employs 200 people across its global offices in the UK, USA, Australia and Asia, and offers round the clock support to its clients.
Sapphire Systems is The Shard’s eleventh letting to be confirmed this year, reinforcing the attraction of the London Bridge neighbourhood to progressive companies. The area has long-standing associations with creativity and commerce, and is also now London’s second largest fin tech hub. The rich culture and social amenities of the neighbourhood – from Bermondsey Street to the world famous Borough Market, are powerful in helping companies attract and retain the best talent in the market.
Sapphire Systems takes the total number of office occupiers in the building to 26 across 14 business sectors. Only four full levels remain available in the 72-floor building, demonstrating the success of the vision to create Europe’s first truly mixed vertical community.
Ian Caswell, CEO of Sapphire Systems commented: “We are delighted to be moving to The Shard. The excellent transport links and vibrant local neighbourhood will be of great benefit to our staff. This move reflects our intent to remain at the forefront of our industry, and with the building being home to many progressive companies, we look forward to becoming part of this unique community.”
Irvine Sellar, The Shard’s developer, co-owner, and vice-chairman of REM and James Goldsmith, Leasing Director of REM, said: “Our vision for The Shard was always to create a vertical city that unites an array of progressive companies from different industry sectors, to create an energetic and sustainable business eco-system. Sapphire Systems accentuates this strategy and will join a host of industry leaders already occupying the building.
“Interest in the remaining space at The Shard continues to be strong. Potential occupiers - many looking to relocate from the West End, Midtown, and more recently the City - cite the transport infrastructure, light adaptable space and growing sense of local community and social environment as supporting their plans to evolve their businesses in a competitive global environment.”
The Shard’s office space is home to companies operating in media, finance, professional services, consulting, luxury brand, education, flexible offices, energy, technology, healthcare, recruitment and asset management. Around 8,500 people now work at London Bridge Quarter, the vibrant estate comprising The Shard and the adjacent News UK headquarters building, and this will rise to 12,500 in the coming few months.
JLL and Knight Frank are leasing agents on The Shard.