Alphabet Inc.'s subsidiary Google just bought a eye-catching building in central London for $1 billion, symbolizing its belief in its future as a workspace. It had already occupied a number of spaces in the building prior to the purchase.
The tech giant has a major presence in the United Kingdom capital, thanks to the acquisition. According to Reuters, Google employs 6,400 people in Britain and intends to refurbish the space so it is better suited for in-person cooperation. Tech employees are increasingly saying they want to work remotely, and it will implement rooms for hybrid workers.
As soon as existing construction and renovation projects are completed, Google is aiming to account for 10,000 employees at the U.K. sites.
Ronan Harris, the vice president and managing director of Google U.K. and Ireland, said in a blog post that the purchase represents our continued confidence in the office as a place for in-person collaboration and connection.
Alphabet CFO Ruth Porat emphasised Google's commitment to operating in the U.K. According to Reuters, our purchase of Central Saint Giles development reflects our commitment to the country's growth and success.