At GCUC UK, Patrick Kennedy and Phoebe Reilly reported that 42% of Manchester office transactions are now flex, yet operators say broker-generated leads dropped roughly 50% in 2024.

Scott Dickson argues AI search tools like ChatGPT and Copilot are the main culprit, bypassing broker marketplace sites by connecting searchers directly to operators. Deals are still getting done though, just through a much wider mix of channels including direct, traditional agents with flex desks, city-specialist brokers, individual brokers like Jimmie Brennan and Jason McDermott, and platforms like Seek.