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In today’s fast-evolving business landscape, companies are looking to tap into local talent but often face the challenges of setting up physical offices across multiple locations. This is where the synergy between Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and flexible workspaces is driving a paradigm shift.
Beyond just altering office spaces, this collaboration is reshaping how global enterprises operate, innovate, and scale. By integrating GCCs with flex spaces, businesses gain seamless access to diverse talent, optimize operations, and leverage state-of-the-art infrastructure—while maintaining the agility and cost efficiency needed to stay ahead.
India has emerged as a global powerhouse for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), underscoring its dominance in the international business landscape. The country now hosts over 1,800 GCCs, serving more than 1,400 global corporations. The past two years alone have seen the addition of over 100 new centres, reaffirming India's attractiveness for multinational enterprises optimizing their global operations. This surge is fuelled by the increasing complexity of global operations, the need for strategic proximity to key markets, and India's cost advantages.
The Growing Affinity of GCCs for Flex Workspaces
A major trend shaping the future of India's commercial real estate market is the growing reliance of GCCs on flexible workspaces. In 2024, cost efficiency and an asset-light real estate approach have propelled many enterprises to adopt flex workspace solutions. GCCs are strategically identifying emerging micro-locations within cities that offer strong connectivity, better amenities, and a thriving business ecosystem. The demand for workspace flexibility is also prompting organizations to adopt innovative office designs that accommodate evolving business needs.
The Rise of Mid-Market GCCs and Their Flexible Workspace Needs
For years, India’s GCC landscape was dominated by large multinational enterprises. That’s now changing. Mid-market companies are emerging as a significant growth driver. They now make up nearly 50% of India's total GCC landscape. By 2026, more than 120 new mid-market GCCs are expected to be established, reinforcing the demand for agile, managed workspace solutions.
Sectoral Expansion and Increased Flex Space Demand
The expansion of GCCs is being driven by multiple sectors, with BFSI, e-commerce, and technology companies accounting for nearly 58% of total leasing activity. Additionally, life sciences, FMCG, and retail enterprises are leveraging India’s skilled workforce and dynamic business environment to establish stronger operational bases. Engineering and manufacturing firms are also scaling up in India, benefiting from growing infrastructure investments and a thriving innovation ecosystem.
GCCs: Catalysts for Digital Transformation
GCCs are no longer just back-office hubs; they have evolved into strategic business partners driving digital transformation. India-based GCCs lead cutting-edge research, innovation labs, and AI-driven business solutions. As companies expand their workforce and technological capabilities, the demand for larger, sophisticated office spaces is set to surge in 2025.
India's GCC Ecosystem: The Future of Global Business Operations
GCCs in India are evolving into digital twins of their global headquarters, integrating business functions while enabling real-time collaboration. Indian talent is gaining international recognition, with over 60 CIOs and SVPs from Indian GCCs transitioning into top global leadership roles. Additionally, GCCs are actively engaging with startups, harnessing India’s entrepreneurial energy to co-create disruptive solutions. As enterprises transition to a hybrid GCC-service provider model, they are blending in-house expertise with strategic outsourcing to enhance efficiency and agility. This shift is reinforcing India's status as a premier hub for next-generation GCCs.
The Road Ahead
With more than 800 new GCCs expected in the next five to six years, the demand for flexible, scalable, and cost-efficient workspaces will only grow. As companies embrace digital transformation, sustainability, and employee-first work models, India’s flex workspace market will play a critical role in shaping the future of global business operations.
