The developers of the Old Vinyl Factory, U+I, are to bring a new high-tech innovation hub, targeting entrepreneurs, start-ups and scale-ups to the Hayes redevelopment of the former EMI factory.
Plus X will launch its first innovation hub at the developer’s Preston Barracks scheme in early 2020, and following that the hub will next be launched at The Old Vinyl Factory. The developer expect to roll the brand out across their UK developments.
Plus X aims to create a hub of economic activity within a development, attracting further occupiers. U+I say they will also seek opportunities to launch Plus X facilities within schemes promoted by other developers, local authorities or public sector organisations.
The Plus X model is based on the concept innovation hub currently housed at The Old Vinyl Factory, The Central Research Laboratory (CRL). Since opening in 2015 CRL has supported 100 businesses, including 25 start-ups, with 60 full-time jobs created and over £5m in investment raised. In 2020 CRL will expand into new 29,000 sq ft premises at the Powerhouse building (pictured), becoming the second Plus X.
The Plus X model will cater for single entrepreneurs or teams of up to 100 people, offering a range of innovation programmes and business growth services, from marketing to team talent experts. Each hub will also include an accelerator or incubator programme, comprising a cohort of entrepreneurs that will receive intensive business support and mentoring.
