Bengaluru Rockets to Top: Claimed as India's Office Space Leader by 2030 (340M Sq Ft Projection)

Bengaluru is poised for unprecedented growth, projected to become India's undisputed office space leader by 2030. A recent report launched at a CII-CBRE event in the city estimates a staggering 330-340 million square feet (sq ft) of office space in the coming years (CBRE India).

This dominance isn't a surprise. Since 2013, Bengaluru's office space has doubled, reaching a massive 223 million sq ft in June 2024. This phenomenal growth captures a significant 25% share of India's total office space (880.7 million sq ft).

The boom extends beyond the city center. Bengaluru's suburbs are witnessing a surge, offering businesses modern office spaces at potentially better prices with access to upcoming infrastructure projects.

Driving Forces Behind Bengaluru's Office Space Demand:

As we approach 2030, several key sectors are propelling Bengaluru's office market:

  • Tech Titans: The technology sector remains the primary driver, gobbling up 30-35% of new space annually, particularly in Outer Ring Road and Whitefield.

  • Beyond Tech: Engineering & manufacturing, BFSI (banking, financial services & insurance), life sciences, aviation, and automobile industries are emerging as significant contributors.

  • Global Capability Center Hub: Bengaluru boasts a staggering 41% share of India's Capability Center market between 2022 and June 2024, solidifying its position as a global hub.

This success story is a result of a powerful combination:

  • Highly Skilled Talent Pool: Bengaluru attracts highly skilled professionals, a critical factor for businesses.

  • Premium Grade-A Office Spaces: The city offers a plethora of premium Grade-A office spaces to cater to growing business needs.

  • Well-Developed IT Ecosystem: Bengaluru boasts a well-established IT ecosystem, providing a supportive environment for tech companies.

Challenges and The Road Ahead:

Experts warn that to maintain its competitive edge, Bengaluru's tech infrastructure needs constant evolution. Building sustainable, high-end tech spaces with cutting-edge facilities is crucial.

Long-term challenges include:

  • Ease of Doing Business: Streamlining the business environment is vital for attracting and retaining companies.

  • Land Cost Management: Managing high land costs requires innovative solutions for developers.

  • Optimum Space Utilization: Optimizing space utilization within existing structures is key.

The current model of joint ventures for land acquisition might also pose difficulties in the future.

Retail Real Estate Boom:

Bengaluru's impressive growth isn't limited to office space. The city's retail real estate has also witnessed significant growth, doubling its stock since 2013 to over 16 million square feet as of June 2024. 

This phenomenal rise secures Bengaluru's position as the second-largest retail market among major Indian cities, capturing a 24% share.

Experts predict this growth trajectory to continue, with retail space expected to reach a staggering 20-30 million square feet by 2030, reflecting a significant 1.4 times increase.

Bengaluru's shoppers fuel this retail boom, with a strong demand for:

  • Entertainment Venues: Entertainment options are a major draw for Bengaluru's shoppers.

  • Fashion Apparel Stores: Fashion apparel stores are a key contributor to retail space demand.

  • Homeware and Department Stores: Homeware and department stores see strong customer interest.

Bengaluru: A Thriving Business and Shopping Hub:

With its exceptional growth in both commercial and consumer spaces, Bengaluru is well on its way to becoming a national leader. 

However, strategic solutions to infrastructure development and land acquisition models are crucial to sustain this momentum and solidify Bengaluru's position as a premier business and shopping destination in India.

- Source: Hindustan Times