Blog

May 16 2025

How offsite document storage can help GDPR compliance

Since the implementation of GDPR. businesses of all sizes have had to re-assess how they store and manage sensitive information. One often overlooked but highly effective solution is offsite document storage. Not only helping to improve office space and organisation, offsite storage can play a crucial role in maintaining GDPR compliance.

Understanding GDPR and data storage

GDPR governs how personal data is collected, processed and stored. This includes everything from employee records to client contracts and financial information. It has been built from seven fundamental principles which are now the foundation upon which all data processing activities should be built.

GSPR required businesses to keep personal data secure, prevent unauthorised access, retain data for as long as necessary and ensure easy retrieval and deletion upon request. Failure to meet these requirements can result in businesses paying large fines and reputation damage.

The compliance benefits of offsite storage

Enhanced physical security

Professional offsite storage facilities are built with security in mind. From 24/7 CCTV and access control systems to secure shelving, M54 Space Centre facilities offer levels of protection that most offices would have difficulty to match.

Clear audit trials

A crucial part of GDPR compliance is being able to demonstrate control over your data. Offsite storage providers can often offer detailed tracking systems. This audit trail can help prove due diligence in the event of an inspection or data request.

Controlled access

Only authorised personnel should have access to sensitive documents. Offsite storage ensures access is strictly controlled, reducing the risk of internal breaches or mishandling.

Ideal for SMEs and growing businesses

Many small to medium sized businesses don’t have the inhouse capacity to store or manage large volumes of data securely. Offsite storage is a cost-effective solution that helps maintain compliance without required investment in new infrastructure or systems.

Offsite document storage can significantly reduce your compliance risks while freezing up space, improving organisation and giving peace of mind. At M54 Space Centre, we are committed to offering a top-quality document storage service, so you can be assured your documents will be safely and securely stored with us at competitive storage prices.

April 14 2025

Your go to checklist for moving office space

Moving offices can be an exciting step for any business, but it can become overwhelming. Whether you’re moving to a larger space or moving to a better location, having a clear checklist can make all the difference. Having a well-organised approach can ensure everything is on track and you are up and running as quickly as possible.

Set a clear moving timeline

A clear timeline is vital for keeping the office on track. I would recommend planning at least 3 to 6 months in advance to allow enough time for organising and notifying any stakeholders.

Here’s how to break it down:

3–6 Months Before: Appoint a project manager or team to oversee the process. Create a detailed timeline with key deadlines.
2–3 Months Before: Start notifying stakeholders, reviewing contracts, and arranging service providers.
1 Month Before: Finalise all logistics, confirm moving dates, and begin packing non-essential items.

Create a realistic budget

Moving costs can very quickly escalate if not properly managed. Establishing a budget early on will help to control expenses and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Costs to consider:

Professional movers and packing services

IT setup at the new location
Cleaning for both the old and new offices
Updating signage, stationery, and marketing materials

It is always sensible to factor in a buffer for any unexpected expenses to ensure you’re prepared for any last minute changes.

Notify stakeholders

Keeping clients, suppliers and partners up to date is essential to maintaining trust and avoiding any unnecessary disruptions.

Here’s a checklist of who to inform:
- Clients: Send out emails, newsletters, or personal messages with your new address and moving dates.
- Utility Providers and Service Vendors: Arrange for disconnection and reconnection of essential services.
- Banks, Insurance, and Government Bodies: Update your address to avoid any communication lapses.
Additionally, set up mail redirection to ensure you don’t miss any important correspondence during the transition.

Audit and declutter

An office move is the perfect chance to declutter and assess what you really need in your new office space.

Consider the following steps:

Furniture and Equipment: Decide whether to move, donate, or dispose of items that no longer serve your business.
Documents and Files: highlight important paperwork and securely dispose of unnecessary documents.
Office Supplies: Reduce clutter by reviewing office supplies and disposing of outdated or unused materials.

Decluttering not only simplifies the move but also ensures your new space starts off organised and efficient.

Plan your new office layout

A well-planned office layout can help boost productivity and promotes a positive work environment.

Key considerations:
- Seating Arrangements: Assign workstations and create collaborative zones to suit your team’s needs.
- Meeting Rooms and Break Areas: Designate spaces for meetings, breaks, and informal gatherings.
- Future Growth: Leave room for expansion and accommodate any expected team growth.
Create a detailed floor plan to guide movers and ensure a smooth setup on moving day.

Coordinate IT and telecommunications

Minimising downtime during an office move is reliant on careful coordination of IT systems and telecommunications.

Here’s how to ensure a seamless transition:
- Backup All Data: Protect critical information by creating backups before dismantling equipment.
- Schedule Internet and Phone Line Transfers: Plan this well in advance to avoid service interruptions.
- Test Systems Before Employees Move In: Ensure everything is running smoothly before your team arrives.
Additionally, review your security systems and access controls to safeguard sensitive information.

Update your address across all platforms

Updating your business address ensures seamless communication and can prevent any confusion after the move.

Examples of where you will need to updated your address:
- Website and Social Media Profiles
- Google My Business and Online Directories
- Email Signatures and Marketing Materials
- Stationery, Business Cards, and Company Documents
Double-check these updates to ensure consistency across all touchpoints.

Prepare your team for the move

A well informed and engaged team will make the moving process much smoother.

To keep your staff in the loop:
- Share updates about the move, timelines, and expectations.
- Involve team members in packing and organising to streamline the process.
- Provide packing materials for moving personal workspaces.
A smooth transition keeps morale high and reduces disruption to daily operations.

Conduct a final walk-through

Before officially handing over the old office, conduct a thorough walkthrough to ensure that everything is in order.

Checklist for the final walkthrough:
- Check for damage or maintenance issues
- Ensure all items have been moved
- Return keys and access cards to building management
This final step ensures a clean handover and protects your deposit or lease obligations.

Moving office space doesn’t have to be stressful. With careful planning, clear communication, and a detailed checklist, you can ensure a smooth transition that minimises downtime and sets your business up for success. At M54 Space Centre we have a range of flexible office space rental options available. Together, we could have your business up and running immediately, with furnished, fully serviced office space. We also offer indoor storage solutions to help with the transition.

March 11 2025

How to choose the right space for your business

Whether you’re launching a new business, or growing an existing business, selecting the right space is crucial to your business success. With flexible-term office spaces and industrial units and in a prime location, M54 Space Centre offers a range of options tailored to suit businesses of all types and sizes. Here are some top tips to determine what space you need.

Understanding your business needs

Before looking into specific options for space, it is important to assess the nature of your business and what the space needs to achieve. Consider the following questions:

What is the main function of your business? Are you offering services, manufacturing products or storing goods?
How many people do you need to accommodate? Will you need office space for employees, or do you need a larger unit?
What equipment or storage will you need? Are you looking for space to store larger items, or are you focused on smaller, more manageable goods?

Understanding the specific requirements of your business will help you to narrow down the ideal space.

Small office spaces: ideal for startups and professional services

If you are a startup, a professional services business, or simply a smaller team, a small office space might be the better option. M54 Space Centre offers modern flexible office units that are perfect for businesses looking for a professional environment to meet with clients, handle administrative work, or collaborate with team members. With spaces ranging from 1 to 10 workstations we can easily accommodate your businesses size.

Benefits of office spaces:

Flexible terms: ideal for companies with changing needs, allowing you to scale up or down with ease.
Fully equipped: Offices are fully furnished with a desk, chair, pedestal and bookcase

Industrial Units: for distribution, manufacturing or storage

For businesses within the distribution, manufacturing or retail sectors, a large industrial unit may be essential. M54 Space Centre provides spacious industrial units equipped to handle the storage of goods and manufacturing activities.

Benefits of industrial units:

Flexible layouts: Units can be tailored to meet different operational needs, including high ceilings, and attached office space.
Security and accessibility: M54 Space Centre offers secure and accessible units, ensuring your stock is safe while being easy to access for any deliveries.

Why choose M54 Space Centre?

When choosing a business solution at M54 Space Centre, it’s crucial to assess your current and future needs. Whether you need a small office for a few employees or a large warehouse to store products, M54 Space Centre has a variety of options designed to support businesses at every stage of growth. By evaluating your operational needs and considering the type of space that will best facilitate your success, you can make an informed decision and secure the right unit for your business. Contact us today to discuss your options or view our availability.

December 12 2024

How self storage units can help you stay organised this Christmas

Christmas can be one of the most exciting times of the year, but it can also be one of the messiest. Between hiding presents, managing decorations and preparing the house for family gatherings your home can very quickly become overwhelming. Self storage can help you reclaim space in your home and make Christmas less stressful, here are just a few ways self storage units can help this festive season.

Keep presents safely hidden

If you are constantly trying to find new places in your home where you can hide your Christmas gifts there a self storage unit offers the perfect hiding place. You can safely store your presents, knowing they won’t accidentally be discovered before Christmas day. Plus with 24/7 access you can retrieve them whenever you are ready.

De-clutter your home before guests arrive

Hosting friends and family over Christmas often means having to make room for extra people. If your home is already full with everyday items and additional Christmas decorations, then a storage unit can free up valuable space. Temporarily store bulky items, seasonal items you won’t need until after the festive period, or anything that may make your home feel cramped.

Safely store your decorations

Christmas decorations often take up more space than expected. From artificial trees, delicate ornaments, and outdoor decorations, these items need careful storage when not in use. A self storage unit can keep christmas decorations out of the way for the remainder of the year whilst protecting them from damage

Stress free solution for post-Christmas cleanup

When the festivities are over, the cleanup can feel daunting. Boxing up decorations, clearing away unused gifts and regaining your space can take longer than expected. A self storage unit offers somewhere to pack everything away until next year, making it easier to get your home back to normal without feeling overwhelmed.

Protect outdoor items over winter

If you have garden furniture, or other equipment taking up space in your garage or shed then a storage unit can help. These items are often not used during the winter months and can be safely stored in a unit, freeing up space for the things you need at Christmas.

Ultimately, Christmas is about spending time with your family and friends and not having to worry about clutter or lack of space. With less mess and more room to enjoy the festivities, you can have a stress free holiday season. To discover more about M54 Space Centre’s self storage units click here.

November 14 2024

Essential Tips for a Productive Offsite Meeting

Offsite meetings can provide the chance to step away from the office, and engage with your team or clients in a new neutral environment. Whether it is a session to brainstorm ideas, or present to clients, hosting meetings outside of the usual office setting can boost creativity and improve productivity. However, as the cast for most things, preparation is key.

Define clear objectives

Before going into any minute it is important to establish the purpose of the meeting. Is it to make key decisions, brainstorm, or review progress? Setting clear goals and producing an agenda means that everyone is aligned on the desired outcomes. It also means that those attending can prepare for the meeting as effectively as possible.

Choose an appropriate venue

The venue for any meeting can have an impact on the effectiveness of the meeting. Look for a space that offers a comfortable atmosphere, modern equipment, and a layout that suits yours needs. At M54 Space Centre we have a variety of meeting rooms available for hire accommodating anywhere from 4-20 people. Each room also offers multiple audio and visual equipment options. Our friendly on-site team offers a variety of services, including welcoming your guests, arranging catering and even providing administrative support for your meeting.

Make sure key people are involved

Ensure to only invite those who are relevant to the meetings objectives. Having too many people can lead to distractions and preventable delays. In addition to this, missing key stakeholders can mean the meeting is less effective. Ensure to select the correct mix of decision makers, and team members to ensure the meeting is a success.

Have the right technology

Ensure the meeting room has the necessary equipment to facilitate the meeting, this includes projectors, video conferencing tools, speakers. M54 Space Centre meeting rooms are available with overhead projectors and dry wipe board and flip chart in each room.

Create a comfortable environment

The physical environment should be conducive to collaboration. Arrange seating that encourages conversation, is free from distractions. It can also benefit to consider catering, at M54 Space Centre each room can be fully serviced with both buffet food and beverages which will be delivered directly to the meeting room.

Follow up

Once the meeting is over, it is important to send attendees a summary of the discussion highlighting key points and assigned action items. Following up from the meeting ensure that everyone knows their responsibilities and deadlines.

M54 Space Centre meeting room hire

Our meeting rooms are located in Telford and feature both stylish and contemporary furnishings. You can quickly and easily schedule meeting rooms in Telford over the phone, with the team at the M54 Space Centre providing professional and impressive meeting rooms when you need them, click here to discover more.

October 14 2024

Why Renting a Hairdressing & Beauty Room is Better Than Setting Up Your Own Salon

Launching your own hairdressing or beauty business is an exciting new venture. The thought of creating a space that showcases your skills and allows you to build your own brand is always appealing. One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether you should rent a room or launch your own salon. Whilst owning your own space can seem like the ultimate goal, renting a fully equipped hairdressing and beauty room can often be the smarter, cost-effective choice.

Lower startup costs

Setting up your own salon requires a significant financial investment. Purchasing a property will require you purchase furniture, decor, equipment and sometimes even renovate which can very quickly spiral out of control. Combined with standard purchasing fees such as insurance, and licence fees.

In comparison, when renting a fully equipped hairdressing and beauty room these initial expenses are eliminated. Our room is equipped with high quality chairs, ample storage space, mirrors and professional lighting.

Flexible rental terms

When renting a hairdressing or beauty room, you typically benefit from flexible terms, this is extremely beneficial for new businesses who are testing the industry. Unlike a salon lease that may be fixed for several years, our room rentals come with shorter and more manageable terms.

Reduced overhead costs

When running your own salon you are responsible for all overhead costs this includes utilities, maintenance, insurance, and even staffing in many cases. These can quickly add up and put pressure on your finances, particularly during slower seasons.

With room rental, many of these expenses are typically covered or reduced. Electricity and water are often included in the rental fee, and any maintenance costs or repairs are the landlord’s responsibility. This means you can operate with reduced costs, allowing you to increase profitability.

Reduced management stress

Managing a salon is often more than just managing your own clients, you are also responsible for managing daily operations, staff, inventory and suppliers whilst also complying with health and safety regulations.

Renting however, means you can focus solely on delivering excellent services to your clients. There’s no need to stress over managing a team or running the entire salon.

Prime location for client growth

When you rent a space, you are often located in a popular or easy accessible area. This can help attract new clients without the costs associated with leasing your own salon in a prime location. Operating from a site in Telford, we have positioned ourselves specifically for ease of access. Being located right off the M54, transport links allow us to serve the entire West Midlands. With the location doing some of the marketing for you, you can focus on retaining and serving your clientele.

Fully equipped and ready to use

One of the biggest advantages to renting a room is that it is fully equipped. This means you don’t need to worry about purchasing mirrors, chairs, storage or even lighting. Our hairdressing and beauty room has been designed with professionals in mind, meaning they are equipped with everything you need to offer a premium experience.

Not only does this save you money, but it also saves you time meaning you can launch your business straight away.

Renting a hairdressing and beauty room provides numerous benefits over setting up your own salon. Offering reduced costs, and flexible terms, our room rental is ideal for professionals looking to launch their own business. To find out more about our hairdressing and beauty room rental click here. Alternatively, contact us today to arrange an appointment.

September 17 2024

Top tricks to make the most out of storage units

Whether you are moving house, decluttering or need extra storage space at your work, a storage unit can be a lifesaver. However, simply filing a unit with your belongings can quickly lead to a cluttered mess, making it difficult to find what you need when you need it. To ensure that your storage unit remains a beneficial investment there is some planning and organisation to be done.

Choosing the correct storage unit size

The first step to maximising your storage unit is choosing the correct size. If you choose a unit that is too small for what you need then you will struggle to fit everything in; too large means that you will be paying for space that you don’t need. To ensure you choose the right size, take an inventory of what you plan to store and speak to a member of the M54 Space Centre to find the perfect unit size. Its important to remember that it is best to have a little extra space than to be forcing items to fit into a unit that is too small.

Create your inventory list

Before packing and transporting your belongings to the unit, create a list. This will give you a quick reference to what is in your unit, helping you save time and stress later down the road. Whether it’s an online document or just written on a piece of paper, you can keep track of what is stored and where.

Using same size, stackable boxes

Invest in sturdy, uniform-sized boxes, this enables you to stack boxes neatly and efficiently whilst utilising vertical space in your unit. Plus, by labelling each box clearly with a description of its contents, everything can be easy to find. Make sure to stack heavier boxes on the bottoms and lighter ones on top to prevent crushing.

Have a plan in mind

Think of your storage unit as a mini warehouse. Map out a layout before you start loading items in. It is beneficial to place the frequently needed item near the front and less used items towards the back. If you can leave a small walkway or access point so you can still access everything stored at the back without having to unload everything.

Utilise empty spaces

Make use of every nook and cranny. Fill empty spaces with smaller items, and store items inside larger appliances. When space is limited, store mattresses, sofas, and other large items upright. This not only saves space but also helps prevent damage from stacking items on top of them.

A well organised storage unit is not just ensuring you can fit as much as possible into a small space; it is about creating a system that makes sure you can easily access all of your items and relax knowing that they are protected. To discover more about our storage units click here, alternatively contact us today.

July 23 2024

Offsite Document Storage: When Destroying Documents Isn’t an Option

The idea of storing physical documents might seem like a distant memory. However, many businesses still deal with physical documents that need to be stored securely and managed. Whether it’s due to legal requirements, industry standards, or the nature of the documents themselves, there are many different reasons why businesses are required to store documents. This is where offsite indoor document storage is the perfect solution.

What is offsite document storage?

Offsite document storage, also referred to as indoor document storage involves moving physical documents from your main location of work to a secure, remote location. The document storage facilities have been specifically designed to store large volumes of documents and ensure that they are protected from any damage including theft, and unauthorised access.

Why destroying documents isn’t always an option

Legal Requirements

Some industries have strict regulations regarding how long certain documents must be retained. Most commonly, financial institutions, healthcare providers and legal firms are often required to keep records for up to several years and maybe even longer. Destruction before the approved time period could lead to legal consequences and fines.

Business continuity

Original documents may be necessary for audit trails, verifying transactions and resolving disputes. In some cases, digital copies may not be considered legally valid without the original physical document to support them.

Confidentiality and security

Some documents may contain sensitive information that needs to be stored securely. At M54 Space Centre our indoor document storage offers enhanced security with 24/7 CCTV and manned security on site, this reduces the risk of any unauthorised access or data breaches.

Benefits of Offsite Document Storage

Enhanced Security: Offsite storage facilities provide robust security measures, including 24/7 surveillance and restricted access. This ensures that your documents are safe from theft, and other potential threats.

Cost-Effectiveness

Maintaining a large volume of documents onsite can be costly, considering the space and resources required. Offsite storage can be a more cost-effective solution, freeing up valuable office space and reducing the need for extensive filing systems.

Improved Organisation

Professional offsite storage services offer systematic indexing and cataloguing of documents, making retrieval easier and more efficient. This level of organization can streamline business operations and improve productivity.

Compliance and Peace of Mind

Knowing that your documents are stored in a facility compliant with industry regulations provides peace of mind. You can focus on your core business activities without worrying about potential compliance issues.

Offsite document storage is an essential service for businesses and organisations that need to retain physical documents securely and efficiently. When destroying documents isn’t an option, finding a reliable offsite storage solution can help you manage your records while ensuring compliance, security, and accessibility. By choosing the right provider, you can protect your valuable documents and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your records are in safe hands.

At M54 Space Centre, we are committed to offering a top-quality document storage service, so you can be assured your documents will be safely and securely stored with us at competitive storage prices. We also offer the additional benefit of an accessible lift, to aid in the transport of substantial documents. For more information about our indoor document storage solutions click here, alternatively, contact us today.

June 18 2024

Essential Facilities Every Modern Office Needs

The concept of office space has significantly evolved over the past few years. Companies are beginning to recognise that a well-equipped office can not only help to enhance productivity but also boost employees’ morale and overall well-being. With this in mind, we have collated some of the most important facilities an office should have to create the perfect work environment.

Comfortable workstations

Comfort is crucial for productivity, having an ergonomic workstation can help prevent repetitive strain injuries and promote a better posture. Providing options for both sitting and standard desks can cater to different working styles.

High-speed internet connection and reliable technology

When working in an office environment, having a stable internet connection is vital. Alongside this, it ensures that computers and other essential equipment are functioning smoothly.

Meeting Rooms

Meeting rooms offer many advantages, not only do they provide a place to host important presentations and decision-making conversations, but they also offer a space for team collaboration and brainstorming sessions. At M54 Space Centre we have a wide range of meeting rooms available to rent whenever you may need them, meaning you only pay for the space you use.

Breakout Spaces

Breakout spaces are informal areas for employees to take a quick break, have informal meetings or work in a different environment. M54 Space Centre’s breakout spaces include comfortable seating, coffee tables and a relaxed atmosphere, helping encourage creativity and collaboration.

Kitchen and Refreshment Area

A communal kitchen area stocked with amenities such as a microwave, refrigerator, and hot water for warm drinks can make a big difference in employee morale. It provides a space for employees to quickly recharge during their breaks and encourages social interaction. At M54 Space Centre we have multiple communal kitchen areas throughout our premises.

Adequate lighting and ventilation

Often overlooked, natural lighting and ventilation are vital for a healthy work environment. Having an office with large windows that allow natural light to enter, combined with good artificial lighting helps improve the overall comfort of the office. Combined with proper ventilation ensures a fresh and clean indoor environment.

Secure Storage Solutions

As a business, it is vital that there is secure storage for important documents. Our indoor document storage solutions provide peace of mind and help to maintain a clutter-free workspace.

Security Systems

Having a secure security system in place is essential to protect both employees and company assets. Our premises have 24/7 CCTV in operation with each office room having its own locking system.

Creating an optimal office space requires careful planning, taking into consideration various factors. By investing in the best office space can help improve productivity and employee satisfaction. Our office spaces are located in Telford, the heart of Shropshire’s economy, providing a complete business support infrastructure. To find out more about our office spaces click here.

May 14 2024

The Complete Guide to Barber Suite Rental

The barbering industry has a growing trend towards suite rental, which offers barbers more independence and control over their careers. If you are considering launching your barber career or are already in the industry and are looking for a new opportunity then understanding barber suite rental could be the solution. In this blog, we will look into everything you need to know about barber suite rental.

What is a Barber Suite Rental?

Barber suite rental consists of hiring the entire space rather than having to buy an entire building you simply pay for the space you need. With some space also having multiple chairs within the barber suite instead of having the employed staff, they act as independent contractors who pay a fee to rent the chair. This means each barber manages their own schedules and sets their own service prices eliminating a lot of the stress of running your own business.

Benefits of barber suite rental

Independence:

Renting a barber suite gives you the freedom to set your own hours and work independently, giving you more control over your career.

Financial control:

As you will be renting the space, you can eliminate a lot of the costs associated with owning an entire building meaning you can keep a higher percentage of your earnings.

Creative Freedom:

You can customise the barber suite with your own personal style and brand, whether it’s images of previous work or artwork you have the freedom to make the space perfect for your business.

Improve client relationships: building a client base becomes a lot easier when you have a consistent space to work from.

Steps to renting a barber suite

Research:

It is important you decide on an ideal location in which you would like to be based, M54 Space Centre’s barber suite is located in Telford providing easy access. Being located right off the M54, transport links means you can expand your clientele with ease.

Evaluate costs:

Whilst renting a barber suite helps reduce costs there are still financial obligations involved, it is important to consider these costs when determining if barber suite rental is best for your business.

Build your brand:

Once you have your barber suite it is important to add some personal touches that represent your brand. This can include marketing material such as business cards or portfolio work to ensure a positive word of mouth from clients.

Whether you’re new to the industry or experienced barber, barber suite rental is the perfect choice for self-motivated individuals looking to launch their own business. It offers an alternative to traditional employment and allows barbers to take charge of their careers.

If you are considering renting a barber suite in the Telford area then contact us today to discuss.