Henley-based service provider Fidelity Group has been selected to help an innovative upgrade of Britain's iconic red public telephone boxes gain industry traction.
New York-based Bar Works is set to launch Pod Works in London, Leeds, Bradford, Norwich and Edinburgh using old BT telephone boxes as mini-work stations for both entrepreneurs who are constantly on the move or for those who need a convenient place to work before a meeting or an interview.
Fidelity will be providing the connectivity to the 'Pods' which will each have Wi-Fi and Internet connections, printer/scanner, wireless mouse, a 25-inch screen, a hot drinks machine and a power bank of plugs.
A fee of £19.99 a month buys membership of the Pod Works 'club' and access to any work station. In order to enter, a link to a mobile App is sent which allows access any time day or night.
Bar Works is also planning to turn other BT phone boxes which are no longer in use into work stations and will gradually expand the concept into major cities across the UK.
CEO Jonathan Black said: "Entrepreneurs and others constantly on the move need a convenient, affordable and private place to work.
"Why should they sit in Starbucks or any other coffee bar when using one of our Pods will allow them to truly focus on their job before an important meeting or presentation at less than the price of two cups of coffee a week."
Pod Works intends to grow a network across the UK starting in London, Leeds and Edinburgh and membership will also allow access to Bar Works locations which currently include New York with London and San Franciso opening soon.