February 28, 2025 – Nitish Sarda, the visionary founder of Smartworks, recently shared his insights on the evolving landscape of co-working spaces, shedding light on how this innovative business model is reshaping the modern workplace. As the demand for flexible, collaborative, and tech-enabled work environments continues to surge, Sarda’s leadership at Smartworks has positioned the company as a trailblazer in India’s co-working industry, catering to a diverse range of enterprises from startups to Fortune 500 giants.
During a recent industry event, Sarda emphasized the transformative role co-working spaces play in today’s fast-paced business world. “The traditional office is no longer the only solution for companies,” he remarked. “Businesses are seeking agility, cost-efficiency, and environments that foster creativity and productivity. Co-working spaces are stepping in to meet these needs, offering more than just desks—they’re becoming ecosystems for innovation.” His comments come at a time when Smartworks is expanding its footprint across India, with a portfolio spanning over 8 million square feet in 13 cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Pune.
Sarda highlighted how Smartworks differentiates itself by focusing on managed office solutions tailored to large organizations. Unlike conventional co-working models that cater primarily to freelancers and small teams, Smartworks has carved a niche by serving sector-agnostic enterprises, including unicorns and soonicorns. “Our goal is to provide seamless, scalable workspaces that align with the strategic goals of our clients,” Sarda explained. This approach has earned the company a client base of over 550 organizations, a testament to its ability to adapt to diverse corporate demands.
The founder also spoke about the recent milestone of Smartworks filing draft papers with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for an initial public offering (IPO). The IPO, aimed at raising approximately ₹550 crore through a fresh issue of shares, signals the company’s ambitions to fuel further growth. “Going public is a natural progression for us,” Sarda noted. “It’s about scaling our vision and delivering even more value to businesses seeking flexible workspaces.” The move has sparked excitement in the market, positioning Smartworks as a key player to watch in India’s booming real estate and co-working sector.
Reflecting on industry trends, Sarda pointed to the growing integration of technology in co-working spaces as a game-changer. Smartworks has invested heavily in smart office solutions, incorporating features like contactless entry, IoT-enabled infrastructure, and advanced analytics to optimize space utilization. “Technology is at the heart of what we do,” he said. “It’s not just about providing a desk; it’s about creating an experience that enhances efficiency and employee well-being.” This tech-driven approach has resonated with clients, particularly in a post-pandemic world where hybrid work models have become the norm.
Sarda also addressed the challenges facing the co-working industry, including rising real estate costs and the need for sustainable practices. He revealed that Smartworks is exploring eco-friendly designs and energy-efficient systems to reduce its environmental footprint. “Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s a responsibility,” he stated. “We’re committed to building workspaces that are good for businesses and the planet.” This forward-thinking stance aligns with global shifts toward greener office solutions, further solidifying Smartworks’ reputation as an industry leader.
Looking ahead, Sarda expressed optimism about the future of co-working in India. With urbanization on the rise and businesses increasingly prioritizing flexibility, he predicts a robust growth trajectory for the sector. “India is at the cusp of a workplace revolution,” he said. “Co-working spaces will play a pivotal role in shaping how we work, collaborate, and innovate in the years to come.” He also hinted at potential plans for international expansion, though he kept specifics under wraps for now.
As Smartworks continues to redefine the co-working landscape, Nitish Sarda’s vision remains clear: to create workspaces that empower businesses to thrive in an ever-changing world. His insights not only highlight the company’s achievements but also underscore the broader potential of co-working spaces to drive economic growth and innovation. With its IPO on the horizon and a strong foundation in place, Smartworks is poised to lead the charge in this dynamic industry, proving that the future of work is flexible, connected, and limitless.
