Clearbell secures Amex GBT at Manchester’s Freetrade

The global business travel arm of American Express has signed for around 5,400 sq ft at the Peter Street office building.

Upgraded by the landlord following its acquisition in 2021, the building saw the arrival in 2025 of legal occupier Nine Chambers, Aptia and Zurich Insurance in a flurry of early year deals.

The latest deal means just the 4,390 sq ft fifth floor is available at the building, where steakhouse Blacklock occupies the lower ground floor.

Amex GBT has signed for 5,422 sq ft on a five-year lease, and moved to the 36,000 sq ft building, close to the Town Hall and St Peter’s Square, in July.

The firm said that the move reflects a continued investment in its Manchester tech workforce, having maintained a presence in the city for 15 years, most recently operating from Piccadilly Place.

Grade two-listed and formerly billed as Freetrade Exchange, the building underwent extensive retrofitting in 2024 to achieve an EPC A rating, with the five floors of upgraded workspace now heated by air source heat pumps and benefiting from rooftop solar panels, while the reception area is now home to a living wall.

Facilities include shower and changing facilities, a fully equipped gym, yoga studio and sauna.

The fifth floor, extending to 4,390 sq ft, remains vacant and is the final available floor in the building. Fit-out works are due to commence following planning and listed building approvals, sad Clearbell, with the space set to benefit from an external terrace wrapping around three sides of the floor for the exclusive use of its future occupier. The quoting rent for Freetrade’s final space is £49.50 per sq ft.

Ben Tolhurst, asset management director at Clearbell Capital, said: “Amex GBT’s decision to consolidate their 15-year Manchester presence at Freetrade is a strong endorsement of the workspace we’ve created.

“It shows that established businesses are actively seeking out the combination of heritage, modern amenities and sustainability credentials that Freetrade offers. With just one floor remaining, we’re pleased to have attracted occupiers who share our commitment to creating workplaces that support both people and the environment.”

Sophie Davies, head of HR UK & Ireland, Amex GBT, said: “Manchester has established itself as one of the UK’s most dynamic technology hubs. We wanted a workspace that matches the ambition and energy of Amex GBT. This new space is designed to help our growing team do their best work.”

Clearbell was represented by JLL, with CBRE representing Amex GBT.