The Hive Founder Constant Tedder is aggressively expanding his network of co-working centres with plans to double them within a year. The Tso Wo Hang resident now has five locations and intends to have 10 by the end of 2016.
Where’s the money coming from? Constant co-founded a UK computer gaming company that created a hit product called MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing games). This company was sold, Constant said, for US$250 million.
For those yet to discover The Hive, it is in what looks like a derelict building. Olive green, the structure is labeled National Factory Ltd. Inside you will find the 2500 sq ft business centre. The location is on Tai Mong Tsai Road opposite the little road that runs to the police station.
“We tried to create a place of homely comfort where you can get work done,” Constant said. The Hive is one of the most civilised places in Sai Kung. Colours are pastel, chairs are over-stuffed and there’s plenty of light Danish wood. James Waterworth of London designed the decor.
Opened in 2014, the Sai Kung Hive is managed by Chris Lau and the host is Crystal Chan. If you want to work at The Hive, you have limited opportunity at present. The eight private offices ($2200 a month per desk) are full so are the dedicated desks ($1500). You need to go on the waiting list. Other options — hot desks, lounge membership — are available.
The other Hives are in Wanchai, Bangkok, where Constant’s firm also has a spa, and Kennedy Town, where there are two, a co-working centre like that in Sai Kung plus a “MakerHive”. This is a large space for designers and makers, i.e anyone who creates physical products. A Singapore location is now under construction and other new ones will follow in Hong Kong and elsewhere.
Constant said he owns The Hive business 90 percent, while the rest of the shares are owned by employees. His other business interest is a Scottish wind energy developer called Dawn Energy. “But growing the Hive is my 100% focus.”
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