Take-up of office space in Manchester city centre reached 1.14m sq ft in 2025, above the five-year average of 1.10m sq ft, according to the latest data from the Manchester Office Agents Forum (MOAF).
The professional services and legal sector was the most active occupier base in 2025, accounting for more than 145,000 sq ft of activity. In Q4, 370,349 sq ft of lettings completed with JMW signing for space at 125 Deansgate and Latham & Watkins and Mazars agreeing deals at Aviary.
In South Manchester, there was 541,367 sq ft of office take-up last year, with deals totalling 183,727 sq ft transacting in Q4, helping the market surpass 2024’s total by more than 83%, and surpassing the five-year average.
Salford Quays recorded 236,529 sq ft of take-up across 2025, with deals totalling 27,043 sq ft completing in Q4. Despite a slower end to the year, Salford Quays recorded its highest annual take-up since 2022.
Following strong take-up activity, supply of new Grade A space is at an unprecedented low in Manchester, at less than 1%. With no committed new build or refurbishment schemes due to reach practical completion in 2026, demand for new Grade A space is expected to be highly competitive this year.
Jonathan Cook, director in Colliers’ Manchester national offices team, said: “There are already a significant number of live requirements circulating from existing Manchester occupiers and we are seeing an ever-increasing numbers of non-Manchester-based businesses looking to expand or relocated into the city due to its direct access to talent and world class universities.
“The city centre continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, with 2025 marking yet another year where take‑up outpaced long‑term averages. The surge in legal sector activity, combined with sustained occupier appetite for high quality, amenity‑led workspace, highlights how occupiers are prioritising quality more than ever. Even with a tightening supply pipeline, best‑in‑class buildings continue to be occupied quickly, a clear sign that quality will remain central to supporting talent, culture and business performance.”
Anthony Howcroft, partner at Hallams Property Consultants, added: “Looking ahead to 2026, both the South Manchester and Salford Quays office markets are well‑positioned following exceptionally strong performances in 2025. The flight to quality seen last year is expected to continue, with occupiers prioritising Grade A and well‑refurbished space as they refine workplace strategies and compete for talent.
“Both markets continue to benefit from access to a highly skilled workforce, which remains a key consideration for expanding businesses. Locations offering excellent transport connectivity and strong surrounding amenities are anticipated to attract the greatest demand in 2026, reinforcing the appeal of well‑connected, high quality workspace across South Manchester and Salford Quays.”
