[By NBC-1TV H. J Yook]Regus, the global flexible workspace provider, is to open drop-in smart work centres at 3 public libraries in Singapore: Jurong Regional Library, Toa Payoh Public Library, and Geylang East Public Library. As the result, local businesses, workers and communities will benefit from access to professional business facilities.

The deal to launch ‘third place’ workplaces in Singapore is the first of its kind in Asia, and will be of interest to other national and regional governments. By enabling people to do their jobs closer to home, these alternative workspaces can reduce commuting and traffic congestion, and facilitate work-life balance and productivity.

In Europe, Regus has already formed partnerships with transport and retail providers to establish ‘third place’ facilities at popular locations. These include working spaces on the French, Swiss and Dutch railways and the UK motorway network, and 70 Shell service station locations across Berlin. Most recently, Regus secured deals to open the first Regus Express centres at UK airports - Heathrow’s Terminal 5 and Gatwick South Terminal.

Phil Kemp, Global Managing Director of Regus Third Place, comments: “There has long been a need for accessible business services and productive workspace near where people live, and we are delighted that the IDA and Regus are to pioneer this in Asia.

“Regus’ strategy is to continue to expand our reach in Singapore and globally, and we will engage with other governments and commercial organisations in Asia to diversify the type of locations we offer. These locations will help to make our customers more successful and make it more convenient for people to do their jobs when, where and how it suits them.”