Transforming global corporate real estate strategy: Koch's partnership with JLL

Taking a step back from the traditional, full-service IFM model, JLL and the Koch team undertook a CRE transformation process. The goal was to reimagine how the real estate function could best serve the individual companies and the corporation with tailored solutions.

The team collaborated to create an innovative, customized service delivery model, offering a menu of FM services that would better meet the needs of the various Koch companies and their varied real estate assets. The new approach would deliver tailored real estate solutions, drive efficiency and create value across the Koch corporate organization.

Full-service IFM is an option, but companies also can choose a more limited, tailored scope of FM support. A company may want to start with site assessment and asset management recommendations to optimize equipment life cycles; seek consultations on energy-efficient lighting, compressed air systems, energy and utility management; or general operational efficiency. Or they can choose targeted FM Flex services, augmenting in-house services with mobile engineering, vendor management, janitorial services, chiller maintenance or other specific services.

The companies can rely on LIFT for not only FM, but also for nearly any real estate service needed—from occupancy planning, workplace strategy and relocation management to portfolio optimization, transaction management, project management, lease administration and more. For instance, LIFT has advised on workplace strategy, look and feel guides as well as design visualizations and insights from JLL’s annual Occupancy Planning Benchmarking Report.

To support Koch’s talent recruitment and retention strategies, LIFT provides experience services that include curated programs and amenities aligned with the individual business’ vision for its workplaces. LIFT’s experience services encompass event management, office logistics support, transportation support for employee commutes, and food and beverage.

Within LIFT, the Integrated Solutions Management (ISM) team provides a single point of accountability for projects and initiatives. ISM creates innovative approaches, adapts them to the stakeholders’ requirements and drives collaboration between LIFT and stakeholders to meet business objectives. ISM leaders also look to optimize resources and manage project risk while maintaining high-quality services.

LIFT continues to advance its priorities and demonstrate its broad capabilities through a range of key initiatives. By delivering integrated solutions across office buildouts, specialized relocations, portfolio optimization and operational excellence, LIFT helps its business partners create environments that support business objectives, enhance employee experience and drive long-term value. The following recent projects highlight the depth and versatility of its expertise.

Workplace transformation

LIFT manages large administrative office buildouts, transforming coworking and underutilized spaces into modern, flexible workplaces designed to support talent growth and evolving business needs. In addition to physical space design, LIFT brings new amenities and technology to the workplace, introducing capabilities that improve productivity and elevate the employee experience. These projects have consistently been delivered within tight timelines and at a lower cost than expected.

Portfolio optimization

LIFT’s expertise also extends to portfolio optimization, where they have analyzed global real estate footprints to uncover opportunities for space reduction and cost savings. Its efforts have enabled organizations to better allocate space, execute dozens of transactions across multiple countries and manage the disposition of surplus properties, including significant land holdings. Its approach includes co-locating multiple companies together to optimize leases and maximize the value of real estate assets, particularly in strategic talent markets. This capability enables organizations to reduce costs, improve collaboration and ensure that new spaces are operational on schedule and well-positioned for future success.

Operational excellence

Operationally, LIFT supports reliable operations in addition to regulatory compliance, sustainability and supplier management. Its team has implemented standardized compliance processes, achieved industry certifications for facilities and delivered cost savings through strategic sourcing platforms. In rapidly expanding regions such as Bangalore, India, LIFT has led multiple facility expansions, enhanced employee amenities and provided a range of support services, including guest experience, food and transportation.

Through these initiatives, LIFT continues to create environments that foster productivity, collaboration and long-term value for Koch.