Deskimo Launches On-Demand Coworking in Singapore & Hong Kong

Deskimo: Revolutionizing Coworking with On-Demand Access

As a participant in the current Y Combinator program, Deskimo is focused on simplifying the process of locating and booking coworking spaces. Currently operational in Singapore and Hong Kong, the on-demand booking application intends to broaden its reach to additional markets following its Demo Day presentation.

Founders and Competitive Landscape

The company’s founders, both previously with Rocket Internet, assert that their primary competition isn’t established coworking giants like WeWork or other hot desk applications. Instead, they identify Starbucks as a key competitor, as Deskimo primarily serves individuals who typically work remotely but occasionally require a nearby workspace free from distractions or suitable for meetings.

Deskimo distinguishes itself by partnering with employers and billing them based on actual usage time by their employees, rather than imposing traditional monthly or annual fees.

The Team Behind Deskimo

Launched in February, Deskimo was founded by Raphael Cohen, formerly the head of Asia for Rocket Internet, and Christian Mischler, a co-founder of Foodpanda who also served as its global chief operating officer. Prior to Deskimo, the pair established HotelQuickly, an on-demand booking platform which they sold in 2017.

Shifting Attitudes Towards Remote Work

The recent pandemic has dramatically altered perspectives on remote work arrangements. A McKinsey survey revealed that 62% of respondents expressed a preference for returning to the office only a few days per week, or not at all. Consequently, numerous companies, particularly startups, are expected to maintain flexible work policies.

Cohen and Mischler draw parallels to the launch of Foodpanda, noting a similar initial skepticism. “In 2012, there was doubt about the viability of online food ordering, with many preferring phone or in-person methods,” Cohen explained. “The lessons learned from on-demand restaurant delivery, specifically the shared market-based approach, are highly relevant to establishing partnerships with workspace providers.”

Current Property Portfolio and Expansion Plans

Deskimo currently features approximately 50 properties in Singapore and 40 in Hong Kong. The company aims to expand its presence in both residential and commercial areas, recognizing the preference of many remote workers for locations near their homes.

Their strategy involves engaging with diverse property owners in stages. Initially, they are collaborating with existing coworking spaces seeking an additional distribution channel. Secondly, they are working with hotels repurposing space for coworking. Finally, Deskimo intends to partner with venues like social clubs and event spaces that remain underutilized during weekdays.

Deskimo app’s QR code. image Credits: Deskimo

How Deskimo Works for Clients and Employees

Deskimo establishes contracts with companies, who then make the application available to their workforce. Employees are allocated a monthly budget for Deskimo usage, and employers are billed solely for the time spent at a workspace.

Access to Deskimo spaces is facilitated through a QR code generated by the app, used for both entry and exit to accurately track usage duration. Pricing typically ranges from $2 to $4 USD per hour, with rates in central business districts generally higher. Clients receive consolidated monthly invoices, and revenue is subsequently shared with the coworking space owners.

Cost Savings and Employee Flexibility

“Many organizations are recognizing significant cost savings by enabling employees to work from home and reducing their office footprint,” Mischler stated. “Rather than incurring additional fixed costs, they are adopting a variable cost model.”

He further emphasized that employees are empowered to choose their work environment, benefiting from the option of a dedicated workspace while retaining the flexibility to work from home if preferred.

Competition and Future Development

While other on-demand coworking apps like Switch, Flydesk, WorkBuddy, and Booqed operate in Deskimo’s current markets, Mischler identifies large food and beverage chains, such as Starbucks, as the primary competition due to their accessibility. He highlights that Deskimo offers a more reliable experience, guaranteeing a workspace and consistent access to amenities like power outlets and Wi-Fi.

Beyond market expansion, Deskimo plans to integrate additional services to enhance its competitive advantage. “Once we establish strong company relationships and employee usage, we can build upon the platform with features related to employee engagement, workforce management, and beyond just workplace management,” Mischler explained. “However, our current focus remains on perfecting the transactional model, as that addresses the most pressing need.”