Chicago-Based Coworking Firm Takes Over Industrious Space in Short North Area, Columbus, OH

A Chicago-based coworking firm is set to take over the Industrious space in the Short North area. Workbox will commence the transition of the coworking facility at 875 N High St. starting at 5 p.m. on Friday.

"We're thrilled about expanding to Columbus; it was among our top choices," CEO and co-founder John Wallace stated. "It perfectly aligns with our objectives," Wallace mentioned that several companies the company collaborates with in Chicago have offices in Columbus or Ohio, making this expansion a logical step.

"Chicago and Columbus share many synergies," he noted. "They're like sister cities." Workbox currently has locations in Chicago, Minneapolis, and Salt Lake City.

Wallace also mentioned that most of the existing tenants have chosen to remain during the transition, and apart from signing new leases, there will be no changes for tenants.

Based in New York, Industrious opened its Short North location within the Sutton building in 2019. This 30,000-square-foot space features 96 office suites and accommodates up to 381 members across the third and fourth floors of the building. 

Workbox's decision to establish itself in the Short North wasn't by chance. Wallace’s wanted to be there, and when the landlord Pizzuti Cos. presented this opportunity, it was too appealing to pass up.

"People want to be where the action is," Wallace remarked. "The Short North serves as a gravitational hub, attracting individuals from all around. It's convenient for team members to be in close proximity."

Workbox offers its members access to advisors or mentors, resources such as their venture capital fund, Workbox Ventures, networking events, and programming, including virtual sessions with various experts and members.

The amenities provided to members include a spacious open kitchen, an outdoor terrace, weekly food and networking events, multiple lounge areas, private conference rooms, and phone booths.

Given that around 30% of its members are either new companies or in the growth stage, Wallace emphasized the importance of locating in a city with a thriving startup and new business presence.

Founded in June 2019, Workbox has rapidly expanded, thanks in part to the pandemic shedding light on the concept of hybrid work. This marks the seventh Workbox location.