Global communications group Havas is set to launch a new state of the art Manchester ‘Village’ after securing a 31,500 sq ft lease at Bruntwood SciTech’s No.3 Circle Square, one of the city’s largest and most exciting new developments.
The long term deal will bring together all six of Havas’ Manchester based agencies: Havas Lynx (healthcare communications), Havas Media Network (media), Havas Red (PR and social), Prose on Pixels (production), Conran Design Group (brand and design), and Havas People (employer marketing and employee experience). They will unite under one roof in Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor, the city’s innovation district. Nearly 500 employees will relocate from their current Princess Street and York Street offices to No.3 Circle Square in November 2025 following a bespoke fit out.
Located at the heart of Circle Square, one of Manchester’s fastest growing innovation neighbourhoods, No.3 Circle Square is surrounded by global tech brands and start ups across AI, Web3, IoT, blockchain, AR VR, energy tech and more. Havas will join major occupiers including Puma, Auto Trader and the ICO.
No.3 Circle Square is the latest phase of the £750 million Circle Square masterplan following the success of the fully let No.1 and No.2 Circle Square buildings. Opening in summer 2025, the 15 storey 267,000 sq ft building is designed for innovation led businesses. The £87 million project is part of Bruntwood SciTech’s broader £243 million investment in Manchester city centre, with additional developments underway at sites such as Thread Works, Pall Mall and Manchester Science Park.
The new building will prioritise wellbeing, flexibility and connectivity, offering features including a shared rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, lounges, meeting spaces, 24/7 access, a gym, secure bike storage, and boutique shower and changing facilities. Sustainability is central to the building’s design. It will be net zero carbon in construction and operation of shared spaces, with BREEAM Excellent, NABERS 5 star and EPC A ratings. Energy efficient technologies include electric heating powered by advanced heat pumps, rooftop solar panels, a smart Building Management System and heat recovery ventilation.
The move reflects Havas’ commitment to sustainability and innovation, as it transitions from its current 19th century warehouse headquarters to a modern, eco conscious workplace. Circle Square, described as “a neighbourhood where creative, science and tech meet,” is adjacent to Symphony Park, one of the city centre’s largest green spaces, and close to cultural venues, restaurants and cafés.
Havas’ new location also positions the company near Sister (formerly ID Manchester), Bruntwood SciTech’s £1.7 billion partnership with The University of Manchester to transform the former North Campus into a world leading innovation district. This growing ecosystem, including the Renold Building’s cluster of over 40 start ups and spin outs, offers unique opportunities for collaboration and talent development.
Mark Whelan, Chairman and Group Chief Creative Officer at Havas UK, commented:
“The regeneration of Manchester makes it the UK’s most exciting city right now. The new Havas Village Manchester reflects our long term commitment to the North. It is a modern, sustainable, hybrid space designed to foster collaboration and creativity, both within Havas and the wider innovation community. We are proud to be part of this next chapter.”
Claire Knapp, CEO of Havas Lynx, added:
“Circle Square’s location in the heart of Manchester’s science and tech hub is a perfect fit for our business. This vibrant community, with its mix of innovative companies, hospitality, arts and green spaces, will be a fantastic home for our people. As a University of Manchester alumna, I am especially excited to build even closer ties with the university, inspiring and developing the next generation of talent.”
Josh Whiteley, Commercial Director at Bruntwood SciTech, said:
“Circle Square is becoming one of Manchester’s key destinations for ambitious, future focused businesses. We are delighted to welcome Havas to this growing ecosystem. By uniting their Manchester agencies in one space, they will have opportunities to collaborate with like minded businesses and access the talent, support and workspaces that will help drive their continued growth.”