Vitality to move 1,000 jobs to Stockport Exchange in landmark letting

Health and life insurance provider, Vitality, has announced it will relocate more than 1,000 jobs from its offices on Wellington Road South to 3 Stockport Exchange.

The deal is one of the strongest corporate endorsements of Stockport’s regeneration to date and further establishes the town as a leading destination for ambitious, high-profile businesses to locate.

The move will see over 1,000 Vitality employees move into 3 Stockport Exchange, occupying 45,000 sq ft of premium business space across four floors in what is the largest office deal in South Manchester since 2019 and the second biggest Grade-A office transaction of the year across Greater Manchester.

Vitality, which also has UK offices in London and Bournemouth, will move from Vitality House (formerly St Christopher House) on Wellington Road South in 2026 to join an impressive roster of leading businesses already based in the BREEAM Excellent offices.

The team from Vitality will take the total number of employees at the thriving site to over 1,000, adding to the 1,095 jobs already at Stockport Exchange with businesses including Britain’s biggest bus operator Stagecoach, music retailer MusicMagpie, global chemical company BASF, leading property company Indurent, and ONP Solicitors.

Leader of Stockport Council, Cllr Mark Roberts, said: 

“Vitality’s decision to move into Stockport Exchange is a huge vote of confidence in our town and its future. This is more than just a relocation; it’s a clear signal that Stockport is now firmly on the map as a leading business destination in the North West and a key player in Greater Manchester’s economic growth. 

“Creating a booming business district in an accessible town centre location, right by the station and the award-winning Interchange, has proven to create new opportunities and jobs that benefit everyone in our borough.  

“Our UK-leading regeneration programme is delivering the right environment for businesses to thrive, and we’re proud to welcome Vitality as part of this exciting journey.”

Cllr Micheala Meikle, Stockport Council Cabinet Member for skills, economy and regeneration, added:

“Vitality relocating its more than one thousand staff to our premier business district is the start of a new and exciting chapter for Stockport Exchange. The move has cemented its position as a growing employment destination, creating opportunities for residents to develop the skills needed for the future.”

Vitality will start their office fit-out in January ahead of moving in over the summer. Luke McClaran, Group Chief People Officer at Vitality, said:

“We are delighted to announce our move to Stockport Exchange next year, a space that will provide modern, purpose-built business facilities where our great people can thrive. 

“Stockport Exchange provides the perfect space for us to create a vibrant, inclusive workplace that helps promote collaboration, connection and innovation. Vitality already has a strong presence in Stockport, and this move reflects how proud we are to be a business within the local community and our continued commitment to the Northwest.” 

Steven Knowles, Director of Development Management at Muse, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Vitality to Stockport’s flourishing business community. Stockport Exchange is a prime example of how thoughtful placemaking can transform an under-utilised site into a thriving destination. By creating high-quality workspaces alongside vibrant public spaces and excellent connectivity, we’ve created a place where businesses, people, and communities come together.”

The deal signals the next chapter in Stockport Exchange’s transformation, unlocking the next phase, as part of the town’s wider £1 billion regeneration, spearheaded by Stockport Mayoral Development (MDC). 

Since the completion of Phase One a decade ago, the area has established itself as one of Greater Manchester’s most connected and vibrant business destinations – with office space priced competitively against prime rents in Manchester city centre. Located adjacent to Stockport railway station, with easy access to central London, and Manchester Airport just minutes away, Stockport Exchange offers unrivalled connectivity for businesses looking to scale. 

The £145m development, delivered in partnership by Stockport Council and nationwide placemaker Muse Developments, combines modern architecture with a green public square and amenities, including the Holiday Inn Express, Fitzpatrick’s Irish Bar, and a range of retail and leisure facilities, including Life Leisure gym, to deliver a modern workplace. 

Upon completion, the development will deliver up to 375,000 sq ft of Grade-A office space and 28,000 sq ft of commercial floor space, creating a dynamic environment for businesses and the community. This latest letting, secured halfway through the game-changing scheme, reinforces Stockport Exchange’s reputation as a prime business destination with access to a highly skilled talent pool, which is in turn allowing occupiers to attract and retain top talent within their sectors.  

From new commercial hubs like Stockport Exchange to revived public spaces, improved transport links and a growing leisure offer, Stockport town centre is evolving into a well-connected destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike. 

Pictured: L-R: Chief Executive of Stockport Council, Michael Cullen; Luke McClaran, Group Chief People Officer at Vitality; Leader of Stockport Council, Cllr Mark Roberts; Deputy Chief Executive of Stockport Council, Paul Richards; Steven Knowles, Director of Development Management at Muse.