Growing global software business Softcat has brought 50 new jobs to Newcastle as it launches its ninth regional office – on the top floor of No. 2, St James Gate.

 

The Marlowe-headquartered firm has signed a 10-year lease for 4,500 sq. ft. of office space – with panoramic views of the city.

 

The FTSE 250 company chose Newcastle because of the North East’s rich talent pool through its universities and colleges, which can feed into Softcat’s people investment, apprenticeship programs and continued growth.

 

Property consultants Naylors Gavin Black brokered the deal on behalf of Palace Capital.

 

The new tenant signing comes on the back of a multi-million-pound refurbishment of the 82,000 sq. ft. office development which created a new double-height reception area, revitalised Grade A floor plates, a major redesign of the outside space to create a courtyard plaza, and the conversion of retail units into two, new self-contained offices.

 

Softcat is a leading UK provider of IT infrastructure products and services to corporate and public sectors. The firm was established in 1993 by Peter Kelly under its original name Software Catalogue and now has over 2,000 employees.

 

Softcat’s Sales Manager Ashley Bilham, who is Head of the North Eastern region (Leeds & Newcastle), said: “By growing our regional presence, we can not only better service our current customers but also increase our footprint nationally. We have strong coverage across the UK already however, there is a large opportunity for growth and recruitment between our Leeds and Glasgow offices.

 

“This new office will help us to provide a local service with a multinational portfolio of products, solutions and services both to our existing customers and new customers. Newcastle Upon Tyne is the perfect location.”

 

Sebastian Leonhardsen has been appointed as Regional Lead for Newcastle.

 

Dan Davies, Head of Asset Management at Palace Capital plc, said: “The letting to Softcat is testament to the quality of the working environment we have created at St James Gate.”

 

Chris Pearson, Partner at Naylors Gavin Black, adds: “We have seen an uptick in enquiries for St James Gate since the start of 2023. Businesses are attracted to the high-quality space, its superb city views and its highly accessible location – being a few minutes’ walk from a Metro and a main line station, as well as just off the A1.”

 

There are two, brand new available offices at No. 3 St James Gate which have highly contemporary interiors, are both 5,000 sq. ft. and have their own front doors.

 

The planned redevelopment of Central Station is set to boost St James Gate further, thanks to the creation of a new western pedestrian entrance which will shave several minutes off the walking-time to and from the offices, from the major transport hub.

 

For lettings information contact Patrick Matheson – patrick.matheson@knightfrank.com or Chris Pearson – chrisp@naylorsgavinblack.co.uk