Air Charter Service has completed the first phase of a programme of upgrades at its £18 million London headquarters, adding enhanced staff facilities and expanding infrastructure at the company's global training centre.

The 47,000-square-foot building serves as ACS's largest office and houses more than 200 employees across its UK sales divisions, finance, IT, flight operations, marketing, legal, compliance and human resources teams.

It also plays a central role in the wider organisation through the ACS Training Centre, where charter brokers from offices around the world undertake classroom-based training and managers receive advanced leadership instruction.

The completed works included a redesigned reception area, a new staff restaurant and games space, upgraded gym and wellness facilities, an in-house film studio, expanded IT and digital transformation facilities and a secure cycle park supporting the company's cycle-to-work scheme.

The enlarged restaurant, finished in November, accommodates more than 120 people and features breakout spaces designed in a coffee shop style alongside a games room. Free breakfast and lunch are provided daily for staff.

Future plans are already being developed, with a second phase set to focus on the headquarters' meeting room and training centre wing. Additional EV charging facilities are also planned as uptake increases under the company's electric car scheme.

Chris Leach, chairman of Air Charter Service, says: “First and foremost we wanted to make it a pleasant environment for the more than 200 people that work in the office along with all those visiting from our offices around the world, so we have made several significant upgrades and expansions. Our objective was to make coming into the building a pleasure and to make sure that our team have everything they need to thrive at work. We appreciate that the office is somewhere that people spend a lot of their time, so it is essential we get the environment and culture just right. Whether it is throwing our famous Christmas and summer parties, investing in facilities, training or staff benefits, we will always continue to invest in our people because they are the key to our success.”