Regus Expansion in Lisbon Offers Access to Market of Opportunity

The Regus Group (LSE: RGU) the world's leading provider of fully furnished, serviced offices is responding to an increased demand for its flexible workplace options and announced the debut of its expanded location in the heart of the Lisbon business district. With financial uncertainty forcing firms to pursue new markets for growth, Lisbon's positive business conditions have made it a desirable and strategic location for companies in Europe.

Since entering the European Union (EU) Portugal's economy has experienced steady growth, largely through increased trade and inflow of EU funds for infrastructure improvements. Increased demand from customers seeking new business opportunities in this emerging European market was among the driving factors for Regus' expansion in Lisbon.

"Portugal's economy has become more dynamic and is attracting a wide range of professionals with diverse business needs," said Olivier de Lavalette, Regus Vice President for Southern Europe. "Regus provides a professional work environment, flexible terms and specialized business support services allowing our customers to concentrate on seizing opportunities, while we concentrate on their workplace needs."

Lisbon is home to 2.1 million residents and is the westernmost capital city in mainland Europe. Regus' facility is located along Lisbon's high profile Avenida de Liberdade in a well-appointed building. Companies based out of this center will have easy access to all major transportations systems, including Lisbon's international airport. The center will have private offices, conference rooms and a business lounge with wireless Internet connectivity allowing for traveling professionals to remain productive while on the road or between meetings.

"Portugal is an excellent entry point for businesses looking to get into or expand in the EU as it is still one of the lower commercial cost environments in Europe. Regus has three locations throughout Lisbon, which allows our clients to office in a location that is right for their business," commented de Lavalette.

Major industries in the country include oil refineries, cement production, textiles and cork (Portugal is one of the world's leading producers). Portugal has also committed to renewable energy sources like solar, wind and wave power to account for nearly half of the electricity consumed in the country by 2010 - presenting great opportunities for alternative energy companies.

De Lavalette goes on to comment that another benefit of working with Regus is the minimal upfront investment needed to have a presence in a new market. "As the credit crunch has limited a company's ability to secure cash, Regus eliminates the up-front capital required with conventional office space. Preserving cash is important when businesses are setting up offices in burgeoning markets like Lisbon," added De Lavalette.

The need for flexible workplace solutions continues to rise as challenges in the global economy force companies to rethink their real estate strategy.

"Business strategies are evolving moment by moment. We provide a model that keeps pace with these changes, giving our customers a competitive edge as they navigate this volatile economic environment. And, Regus' new Businessworld membership program further supports clients' needs by providing them with a professional office or business lounge to work from when they are traveling," said de Lavalette.

About The Regus Group

The Regus Group is the world's leading provider of pioneering workplace solutions, with products and services ranging from fully equipped offices to professional meeting rooms, business lounges and the largest network of videoconferencing studios. The Regus Group delivers a new way to work, whether it's from home, on the road or from an office.

Clients such as Google, GlaxoSmithKline and Nokia join thousands of growing small and medium businesses that benefit from outsourcing their office and workplace needs to The Regus Group, allowing them to focus on their core business.

Over 400,000 clients a day benefit from Regus Group facilities spread across a global footprint of 1,000 locations in 450 cities and 75 countries, which allows individuals and companies to work wherever, however and whenever they want to.

For more information, visit www.regus.com.