Salley Huang, general manager of The One Center, tells us about the new One Center and how serviced offices can help save costs during these tight financial times.

CW: The One Center recently opened in Lujiazui. Can you tell us about it?

Sally Huang: The original purpose for opening this center was to give the tenants of the building (and surrounding buildings) access to facilities they don't already have, such as larger meeting rooms and video conferencing. We have offices from 78-120 sq. meters with one to 10 workstations, so it's suitable for small to medium-size enterprises.

How difficult is it going to be to find tenants in 2009?

Because of the financial crisis, most companies are controlling their budgets very tightly. For them, serviced offices offer the option to either downsize their offices or expand--it gives them more flexibility.

Do you think serviced offices help save costs?

Yes.

How?

You only pay for what you actually need. You have a meeting, you pay for it; if you don't, you don't. Also, the new labor laws introduced in January 2008 make it very difficult for companies to fire staff, for any reason. And when you hire staff, you have to cover their costs (medical, etc.) which account for up to 44 percent of labor costs. So they can save here as well.

So are you offering any promotions or additional incentives to attract clients?

We have some special promotions for the new year. Some units are being offered at up to 50 percent discounted rates through the end of March.

The One Center, Tel: 6194-6600, www.theonecenter.cn