Business Centre @ The Deep Celebrates 25 Year Anniversary With a Legacy of Community and Conservation

Blimey, 25 years is a long time. It’s older than some of the biggest social media apps, and it’s definitely seen a few phone models come and go. In the world of business, hitting a quarter of a century is a massive deal, a real milestone worth shouting about. And that’s exactly what the Business Centre @ The Deep is doing.

On the 12th of February 2026, this unique hub celebrated its incredible 25 year anniversary, marking a long history of supporting companies and, believe it or not, helping to save the oceans. It’s not your average collection of offices; it’s a place with a story, a thriving business community, and a very special connection to its famous next-door neighbour, The Deep aquarium.

A quarter-century of growth and success

Think about where you were in the year 2000. That’s when the idea for the Business Centre @ The Deep first sparked into life. It began as a start-up itself, operating from a temporary office on Ferensway while the team worked tirelessly to get the state-of-the-art facilities ready. A year later, in 2001, it officially opened its doors to its very first clients. Since then, it has been a launchpad for an incredible number of ventures. The numbers are pretty staggering, actually. The centre has provided vital support for 319 companies in total. That includes being the first home for 124 brand-new start-up businesses and the location of choice for 108 companies setting up new regional, national, and even international offices right here in Hull. This longevity and continued success show a real commitment to fostering business growth.

This isn't just a historical achievement; the growth is ongoing. In 2025 alone, the business community expanded to welcome six new organisations, a mix of resident clients and virtual ones. The centre is also a hive of activity for meetings, training days, and conferences. Last year saw 488 separate bookings, clocking up over 2,545 hours of collaboration and planning. That’s a lot of coffee and bright ideas. The success of the centre is built on its ability to provide top-tier business services that help companies of all sizes find their feet and expand.

More than just a place to work

So, what’s the secret sauce? Why do businesses choose this particular business centre, and more importantly, why do they stay for so long? Some of the original resident clients are still there, which is almost unheard of. It seems to come down to a real sense of community and support. It’s one thing to rent an office; it’s another to feel like you’re part of something special.

Andy Metcalf, a Product Manager at Wipro and one of the longest-serving tenants, puts it perfectly. He’s been there since day one.

As the longest‑serving tenant I’ve had the privilege of seeing The Deep Business Centre grow from the day it opened into the thriving varied employment hub it is today,” he said. “Freya and her friendly team have supported me throughout that entire journey with stability, community, and countless fond memories which have made it easy to stay rooted for these 25 years. I’ve watched the Centre grow and evolve alongside my own career and I hope this will continue for many more years to come!

That feeling is echoed by Paul Wilkinson, Chief Executive at the No Way Trust, another long-term tenant of 24 years. For his charity, the location has been key.

The prestigious location of the offices has been pivotal in enhancing our profile and expanding our children and young people operations both locally and across the country,” Paul explained. “Now in our 33rd year as a charity, we are confident that the immense success of our charitable services could not have been furthered better, anywhere else. Huge congratulations to the Deep Business Centre for 25 years of providing outstanding business services to Hull.

Doing business for a brilliant cause

Here’s the bit that makes the Business Centre @ The Deep truly stand out. It’s the sister site to the city’s iconic aquarium, which isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s an education and conservation charity. Every business that sets up shop in the centre, every company that holds meetings there, is directly helping that mission. The income generated helps fund The Deep’s vital work in marine conservation. So, the clients aren't just getting great offices and support; they're contributing to something much bigger. It’s a model where business success directly fuels a charity dedicated to protecting the planet. Now that’s a pretty good reason to come to work in the morning.

The Head of Business & Corporate at The Deep, Freya Cross, reflected on this incredible milestone.

We are so proud to be celebrating this incredible milestone with our thriving business community,” she shared. “It is a special feeling to be sharing this significant occasion with so many amazing organisations, both small and large, resident and virtual, and to say a huge thank you for all of their support over the past 25 years.

A hub that’s still making waves

A 25 year anniversary isn't about looking back; it’s about celebrating a foundation that’s still being built upon. The centre continues to attract new and exciting businesses. Gemma Wardell, the founder of Human Brilliance, has a special connection to the place.

I worked at The Deep when it first opened in 2002, so returning years later to base my own growing business here feels incredibly special,” Gemma said. “The Business Centre @ The Deep has played a vital role in supporting the launch and growth of Human Brilliance, offering not just a workspace but genuine encouragement, connection and belief.

And let’s be honest, there are some perks you just won’t find anywhere else. Paula Wood, founder of Exam Officers & Data Solutions, pointed out one of the more unique features. “Happy 25th anniversary to everyone involved with Business Centre @ The Deep. It has been two years since we moved here, and it has been a fin- tastic space for our company to continue to grow,” she said. And the best bit?

“We can offer clients breakfast next to the penguins..where else would you experience that! Wishing everyone many years to come.” Having breakfast next to the penguins has to be one of the best ways to kick off a day of important meetings. It’s a reminder that this is more than just a business centre; it’s a place of inspiration, community, and conservation, ready for the next 25 years of success.