Choosing the Right Industrial Unit for Your Business Growth

Resources & Guides
18/11/2024

| Will Hodges

2 light industrial units at Skypark Exeter. The two units portraying the importance of choosing the right industrial unit for your business.
2 light industrial units at Skypark Exeter. The two units portraying the importance of choosing the right industrial unit for your business.

Choosing the right industrial unit is a pivotal decision for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re a small startup seeking cost-effective space, a growing medium enterprise needing more room for expansion, or a large corporation aiming to streamline operations, the type of workspace you choose will have a lasting impact on your success.

At Onyx Business Parks, we offer a range of industrial units tailored to meet the specific needs of various businesses. These include shell, half mezzanine, full mezzanine, and custom light industrial units. We’re going to explore each of these options, discuss their unique advantages, and provide practical advice on how to choose the right unit for your business growth.

We’ll also touch on the importance of location and how our business parks offer strategic advantages for businesses in Devon and beyond.

Why Choosing the Right Industrial Unit Matters

The light industrial unit you choose can directly influence your business’s productivity, operational costs, and ability to scale. A unit that aligns with your business needs will provide:

  • Operational Efficiency: Streamline processes by having a layout that supports optimal workflow.
  • Scalability: Ensure your workspace can adapt as your business grows or changes.
  • Cost Savings: Minimise unnecessary expenses by choosing a unit that matches your current and future needs.
  • Improved Morale: A well-designed workspace contributes to employee satisfaction and productivity.
  • Enhanced ROI: Whether for personal business use or as an investment, selecting the right property can lead to significant financial returns over time.

Types of Industrial Units at Onyx Business Parks

Shell Unit

A Shell light industrial unit provides a blank canvas, allowing you to customise the space entirely to your needs. These units are ideal for businesses that want maximum flexibility.

Key Features:

  • Open Layout: No pre-built structures, offering a wide-open space for complete customisation.
  • Cost-Efficient: Often the most affordable option, allowing businesses to invest in custom fit-outs.
  • Scalable: Easily adapt the space as your business evolves.

Advantages:

  • Customisation Freedom: Design the space to match your specific operational needs, whether it’s for warehousing, production, or office use.
  • Lower Initial Costs: With no built-in features, the upfront investment is typically lower.
  • Versatility Across Industries: Suitable for a variety of sectors, from logistics to creative industries.

Who Should Consider It?
Startups, small businesses, or those with unique operational requirements.

Have a look at our shell light industrial units.

Half Mezzanine Unit

The half mezzanine light industrial unit offers a combination of open space and elevated workspace, providing businesses with flexibility while maximising vertical space.

Key Features:

  • Split-Level Design: A mezzanine covering half the unit’s footprint, creating both ground-level and upper-level spaces.
  • Efficient Use of Space: Ideal for businesses needing additional storage or office space.
  • Cost-Effective Expansion: Provides additional workspace without the expense of a larger unit.

Advantages:

  • Multi-Functional Space: Use the mezzanine for offices or storage while keeping the ground floor for operations.
  • Improved Workflow: Separate different business functions for greater efficiency.
  • Space Maximisation: Get more out of your unit without increasing its footprint.

Who Should Consider It?
Businesses with moderate storage or administrative needs, such as retail distribution or service providers.

Have a look at our half mezzanine light industrial units.

Full Mezzanine Unit

For businesses that require extensive space, the full mezzanine light industrial unit provides a second level covering the entire footprint of the unit, effectively doubling your usable space.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive Two-Level Layout: Offers significant additional floor space.
  • Maximised Efficiency: Ideal for businesses with high operational or storage needs.
  • Enhanced Workflow: Designated areas for different functions (e.g. storage upstairs, operations downstairs).

Advantages:

  • Double the Space: Accommodate more inventory, equipment, or staff without relocating.
  • Long-Term Scalability: Perfect for growing businesses with complex operational requirements.
  • Cost-Effective Expansion: Increase your usable space without the need for a larger unit footprint.

Who Should Consider It?
Larger businesses or rapidly growing companies in industries like e-commerce, logistics, or manufacturing.

Have a look at our full mezzanine light industrial units.

Custom Unit

A custom light industrial unit is designed entirely around your business’s specific needs. Whether it’s additional loading bays, specialised storage areas, or custom office configurations, this option offers the ultimate flexibility.

Key Features:

  • Bespoke Design: Work closely with our team to create a unit tailored to your exact requirements.
  • Specialised Features: From temperature-controlled environments to advanced security systems.
  • Long-Term Scalability: Ensure the unit can evolve alongside your business.

Advantages:

  • Fully Tailored Solution: No compromises – get a unit that fits your business like a glove.
  • Optimised for Productivity: Custom layouts ensure peak operational efficiency.
  • Future-Proofed: Designed to accommodate growth and industry-specific needs.

Who Should Consider It?
Businesses in specialised industries, such as high-tech manufacturing, logistics, or research and development.

Have a look at our custom light industrial units.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Industrial Unit

1. Business Size and Growth Trajectory

Your current business size and projected growth are critical factors. Startups might prioritise affordability, while established businesses may focus on scalability and operational efficiency.

2. Industry and Operational Requirements

The nature of your business dictates your space needs. A light manufacturing business might prioritise open floor space, while a tech company may require a balance of office and operational areas.

3. Location: A Strategic Advantage

The right location enhances your business’s logistics, visibility, and accessibility. Onyx Business Parks offers units in prime locations:

  • Westpark, Wellington: Close to the M5, ideal for businesses requiring efficient transport links.
  • Skypark, Exeter: Near Exeter Airport, offering excellent national and international connectivity.
  • Roundswell, Barnstaple: A thriving business hub with local and regional accessibility.

4. Budget and Financing Options

Different unit types come with varying price points. Onyx Business Parks provides flexible purchasing plans, ensuring businesses of all sizes can find a suitable option.

How Onyx Business Parks Supports Your Growth

Modern Amenities and Infrastructure

All units come equipped with essential infrastructure, including high-speed internet, energy-efficient systems, and secure access. These features contribute to improving your work environment and boosting productivity.

Flexible Workspaces for Every Stage

From startups to large enterprises, our range of flexible workspaces caters to businesses at every stage of growth. Whether you need a shell light industrial unit for customisation or a custom business unit for specialised operations, we have a solution.

Find Your Ideal Industrial Unit

Choosing the right industrial unit is a critical step in your business’s growth journey. With a wide  range of options, Onyx Business Parks provides flexible, scalable solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses.

Explore our industrial units for sale in Westpark, Wellington, Skypark, Exeter, and Roundswell, Barnstaple

Contact us today to discuss your requirements and find the perfect unit to support your business growth.

More news and ideas

The latest news and articles from Onyx Business Parks. Dip in to updates on our latest sites and articles on the benefits of our multifunctional business units.

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  • More news and ideas

    The latest news and articles from Onyx Business Parks. Dip in to updates on our latest sites and articles on the benefits of our multifunctional business units.

    3d printing machine inside an Onyx Business Parks' Light Industrial Units, highlighting one of the many industries moving into a light industrial unit in 2025

    Top Industries Moving into Light Industrial Units in 2025

    The demand for light industrial units is rapidly increasing as businesses across a variety of industries recognise the benefits of flexible and cost-effective workspaces. As... Read More

    2 light industrial units at Skypark Exeter. The two units portraying the importance of choosing the right industrial unit for your business.

    Choosing the Right Industrial Unit for Your Business Growth

    Choosing the right industrial unit is a pivotal decision for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re a small startup seeking cost-effective space, a growing medium... Read More

    Buying a Commercial Workspace? Here's an example of a contemporary bike sales office featuring a ground floor layout with shelving units, bicycles on display, and workstations. The space includes green chairs around a table and plants adding a touch of greenery, with a staircase leading to the mezzanine.

    10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Commercial Workspace

    Buying a commercial workspace is a significant investment, whether for business use or personal investment. Asking the right questions ensures you make an informed decision... Read More

    A large, custom industrial unit converted for storage purposes for the NHS. This large unit highlights Onyx's ability to provide flexible business units to companies of all sizes to meet their demands.

    Flexible Business Units: Why Your Business Needs Them

    Growing businesses need flexible spaces that adapt to their evolving needs. For small and medium businesses, and even larger enterprises looking to expand, a light... Read More

    A modern industrial unit showcasing a mezzanine office space with a storage area below. The upper level features glass partitions, a seating area with grey sofas, and a round meeting table with green chairs. The lower level includes a green cabinet, a small kitchen area, and a long table with green chairs. The ONYX Business Parks logo is displayed on the wall.

    How to Optimise Your Industrial Unit for Productivity

    Optimising your light industrial unit for maximum productivity is essential for the success of your business. Whether you're a current tenant or a prospective buyer... Read More

    Map of the United Kingdom and Ireland highlighting key cities and regions, illustrating how location influences commercial property investment returns in different areas.

    How Location Impacts Commercial Property Investment Returns

    When it comes to investing in commercial property for sale in the UK, location is one of the most critical factors in determining the success... Read More

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