The number of businesses considering moving offices due to the economic climate is set to double in the next 12 months, according to research by BT Business.
The survey found that 16% of companies thought the economic landscape would influence their decision on whether to move over the next 12 months, compared to just 6% who saw it as an issue right now.
Of those businesses that are considering moving, 28% said they were looking to reduce the size of their current premises or renegotiate the rent; an increase of 11% on the previous month.
But only one in 10 (11%) thought they were in a good position to negotiate for better premises, compared to one in four the previous month.
One in five (20%) of the companies that responded said they were considering closing one or more of their locations, while 3% of businesses intend to shut their current premises and relocate to a smaller location.
"In the current climate, many businesses are relocating to downsize their operations, reduce overheads and save money," said Bill Murphy, managing director at BT Business.
"Whether businesses are growing or looking to rationalise operations, in some instances reducing the need for office space with the adoption of flexible working, it is critical they adopt the right approach to moving in order to minimise the hassle and maximise the opportunities offered at the new premises."
None of the businesses surveyed were looking to move to a bigger location, the research added.
