The latest data released shows a 30 per cent increase in new virtual office customers in the last 12 months with the bulk of new customers – 67 per cent – living outside London. The West End is the most popular destination where SMEs are choosing business addresses in order to gain a presence in the Capital.

According to EOG's data, the growth is mainly from established smaller businesses that are keen to expand their business operations, even during the uncertain economic recovery. The flexibility and cost-savings offered by virtual offices can make them the ideal solution.

With contracts from as little as £50 per month, more virtual office customers are gaining confidence and signing up for 12 month contracts. This commitment demonstrates that a London presence has significant value for smaller businesses and they are prepared to commit for longer periods than during 2010.

EOG have also published data showing that activity in their London business centres among virtual office customers has also increased since this time last year. Meeting room bookings from virtual customers are up 30 per cent since July 2010, and 15 per cent more virtual customer are also choosing to use the company's Central London hot desking facilities over the same period.

John Drover, Chief Executive at Executive Offices Group, commenting on this latest data, said:

"A significant annual increase in business activity from virtual office users can only mean one thing for the London economy. With more new business start ups, greater confidence among the established smaller business community and companies conducting more meetings and taking advantage of our London office sites, 2011 is becoming a solid year.

"It is always encouraging to hear from customers where using virtual offices have helped them grow their businesses, especially in these uncertain economic times. Now we've made it even easier for people to sign up for a virtual office, having recently launched our online booking service. Business owners can now be up and running in a new virtual office location within 48 hours."

Customers that purchase an EOG virtual office online before the end of September will automatically receive six hours free meeting room usage at their home centre, enabling them to immediately maximise the impact of their new virtual location and enjoy all the benefits of having a world-class business address without the risks and obligations that come with being located on-site.