The International Campus Group (IC) is observing increased corporate demand for accommodation concepts for skilled workers and expats. Since September 2025, businesses have already secured 400 HAVENS LIVING branded apartments for their employees in the metropolitan areas of Frankfurt, Berlin and Hamburg. This development underscores the growing need for quality housing solutions in the context of the skilled labour shortage and location attractiveness.
The initiative aims to offer companies a flexible accommodation option for newly recruited employees, especially for those moving to a new city for a job change or project-related assignments. This should be seen against the backdrop of housing searches in major German cities posing an increasing challenge for employers seeking to attract new talent. For international skilled workers, known as expats, starting in Germany is additionally complex, as studies show.
Strategic Expansion of B2B Cooperations
HAVENS LIVING positions itself specifically as a comprehensive service provider. The fully furnished apartments offered feature their own kitchens and bathrooms in central locations and also include an extensive range of services. This encompasses support from a local host team for administrative matters, such as proof of residence, as well as fostering community through events and shared activities. Common areas such as co-working lounges, gyms and roof terraces also contribute to integration.
To meet the increased demand in the B2B sector, International Campus has reinforced its capacities with additional staff. Nora Gehlen has been operationally responsible for cooperations with corporate clients and the expansion of apartment contingents since June 2026. Ms Gehlen brings many years of experience from the serviced apartment industry and is familiar with the requirements of corporate clients as well as the operational demands for high-quality, short-term available housing solutions.
The HAVENS LIVING concept goes beyond merely providing furnished accommodation. Gawain Smart, CEO of International Campus Group, emphasised that employers recognise how crucial accommodation has become for employee recruitment. He explained that the offering is more than a hotel and enables quick integration through the on-site team and event offerings. This holistic approach aims to provide new employees not only a home but also a social connection, which can positively influence their loyalty to the company.
- —400 HAVENS LIVING branded apartments leased by companies.
- —Property locations: Frankfurt, Berlin and Hamburg.
- —Target group: Work-related relocations, skilled workers, expats.
- —Head of B2B division: Nora Gehlen since June 2026.
International Campus adapts its offering to the specific conditions of businesses, including budget, timeframe and the required number of apartments. This tailored approach supports employers in cities with tight housing markets in providing new employees with adequate accommodation directly at the start of their employment.
