Sharesy

Sharesy, the local space booking platform in the UK

Sharesy is a digital platform that connects people and organisations looking for a space with venues that want to rent theirs out. Its catalogue brings together more than 1,800 spaces across the UK, aimed at both one-off events and recurring sessions. The company states that over the last twelve months more than 25,000 events have been held through its platform and that over £6 million has gone to partner venues.

Types of events and available spaces

The platform organises its offering by event type. Among the categories it shows are birthdays, kids' parties, work parties, private dining, meetings and corporate events, classes and fitness activities, as well as wakes and memorials. Spaces include halls, bars, private rooms, studios, rooms by the hour and flexible community halls.

Sharesy distinguishes between hiring an empty space, which is paid for by the hour and allows you to bring your own food, decorations and music, and booking venues with food and drink included, such as private rooms in pubs, restaurants and bars. In the second case there is no hourly fee; instead a minimum spend or a package is agreed, and payment is made directly to the venue on the day of the event.

Recurring bookings and personalised search service

The platform allows you to book the same space on a weekly basis. According to the figures it publishes, over the last twelve months more than 14,000 recurring sessions have been booked. For those who run classes, clubs, groups or church activities, Sharesy offers a free search service: the user tells them what activity they run, in which area and at what times, and the company's team finds the space, checks the details and agrees the terms with the venue.

Additional uses: filming, recording and performances

As well as social and corporate events, the platform's spaces can be booked for filming, photo shoots, music and podcast recording. They also host concerts, recitals, school performances and choir practice, and many halls come with a stage, a piano and room for an audience.

Model for venue owners

Owners can list their space on the platform with no setup costs and no monthly fees; Sharesy only takes a commission when a booking is made. The owner keeps control of their calendar, their prices and their house rules. The company notes that this model allows venues to increase their outreach and attract new customers.

Background and ratings

Sharesy was founded in March 2020. The first space joined in October that year, the website launched in December 2020 and in February 2021 it closed its first seed investment round. In October 2021 it opened offices at Uncommon, Highbury, and in February 2022 it reached ten employees. The platform holds a rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Trustpilot, with reviews highlighting the ease of the booking process and communication with venues.