Vitality brings over 1,000 jobs to Stockport Exchange

Stockport town centre’s business district is set for another significant boost as health and life insurance provider Vitality confirms its relocation to Stockport Exchange.

In what is the largest office deal in South Manchester since 2019 and the second biggest Grade-A office transaction of the year across Greater Manchester, the move will see over 1,000 Vitality employees move into 3 Stockport Exchange, occupying 45,000 sq ft of premium business space across four floors. The landmark letting represents one of the strongest corporate endorsements of Stockport’s regeneration to date and further establishes the town as a leading destination for ambitious, high-profile businesses to locate.

It also signals the next chapter in Stockport Exchange’s transformation, unlocking the next phase, as part of the town’s wider £1 billion regeneration, spearheaded by Stockport Mayoral Development (MDC).

Vitality, which also has UK offices in London and Bournemouth, will move from Wellington Road next year to join an impressive roster of leading businesses already based in the BREEAM Excellent offices, including Britain’s biggest bus operator Stagecoach, music retailer MusicMagpie, global chemical company BASF, leading property company Indurent, and ONP Solicitors.

What does this mean for Stockport Exchange?

With 1,095 jobs already at Stockport Exchange, the team from Vitality will take the total number of employees at the thriving site to over 2000.

Since the completion of Phase One a decade ago, the area has established itself as one of Greater Manchester’s most connected and vibrant business destinations – with office space priced competitively against prime rents in Manchester city centre. Located adjacent to Stockport railway station, with easy access to central London, and Manchester Airport just minutes away, Stockport Exchange offers unrivalled connectivity for businesses looking to scale.

The £145m development, delivered in partnership with Stockport Council combines modern architecture with a green public square and amenities, including the Holiday Inn Express, Fitzpatrick’s Irish Bar, and a range of retail and leisure facilities, including Life Leisure gym, to deliver a modern workplace.

Upon completion, the development will deliver up to 375,000 sq ft of Grade-A office space and 28,000 sq ft of commercial floor space, creating a dynamic environment for businesses and the community. This latest letting, secured halfway through the game-changing scheme, reinforces Stockport Exchange’s reputation as a prime business destination with access to a highly skilled talent pool, which is in turn allowing occupiers to attract and retain top talent within their sectors.

From new commercial hubs like Stockport Exchange to revived public spaces, improved transport links and a growing leisure offer, Stockport town centre is evolving into a well-connected destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.

Steven Knowles, Director of Development Management, said:

Leader of Stockport Council, Cllr Mark Roberts, said:

“Vitality’s decision to move into Stockport Exchange is a huge vote of confidence in our town and its future. This is more than just a relocation; it’s a clear signal that Stockport is now firmly on the map as a leading business destination in the North West and a key player in Greater Manchester’s economic growth.

“Creating a booming business district in an accessible town centre location, right by the station and the award-winning Interchange, has proven to create new opportunities and jobs that benefit everyone in our borough.

“Our UK-leading regeneration programme is delivering the right environment for businesses to thrive, and we’re proud to welcome Vitality as part of this exciting journey.”

Cllr Micheala Meikle, Stockport Council Cabinet Member for skills, economy and regeneration, added:

“Vitality relocating its more than one thousand staff to our premier business district is the start of a new and exciting chapter for Stockport Exchange. The move has cemented its position as a growing employment destination, creating opportunities for residents to develop the skills needed for the future.”

Vitality will start their office fit-out in January ahead of moving in over the summer. Luke McClaran, Group Chief People Officer at Vitality, said:

“We are delighted to announce our move to Stockport Exchange next year, a space that will provide modern, purpose-built business facilities where our great people can thrive.

“Stockport Exchange provides the perfect space for us to create a vibrant, inclusive workplace that helps promote collaboration, connection and innovation. Vitality already has a strong presence in Stockport, and this move reflects how proud we are to be a business within the local community and our continued commitment to the Northwest.”