Founder and MD of HotBox Jamie Rothwell Talks To The Intelligent Lab To Discuss How HotBox are Revolutionising Agile Workplace

Jamie Rothwell, founder of Hotbox, developed the idea in 2000 while working in commercial interiors. With offices transitioning to hot-desking and agile work environments, employees lacked dedicated storage for personal items. The industry’s initial solution—rolling pedestals—was impractical, leading Rothwell to create a compact, portable alternative.

By 2002, Hotbox launched, but adoption was slow due to workplace inertia. It wasn’t until companies like Steelcase and American Express embraced flexible workspaces that Hotbox became essential. Today, it’s used by businesses worldwide.

Product Evolution & Market Adoption

Hotbox started with desk caddies but took a decade to introduce Hotbox 2 (2012), reflecting changing work habits. Employees no longer needed hanging files—instead, they wanted sleeker, more customisable storage

  • Fabric covers (via Camira) added personalisation.
  • Colours and accessories helped employees maintain a sense of identity in sterile office spaces.

The company later expanded into laptop bags, ensuring storage solutions suited both offices and remote work.

COVID-19’s Impact & The Hybrid Work Revolution

While hybrid working was already growing, COVID-19 accelerated its adoption.

  • Pre-pandemic, Hotbox products helped employees move within the office.
  • Post-pandemic, they evolved to support remote and flexible working anywhere.

The company redesigned storage solutions to transition from desk caddies to versatile laptop bags and portable workstations, keeping workers organised in any setting.

Sustainability & Future Growth

Hotbox prioritises sustainability, manufacturing in Italy (not the Far East) and using 100% post-consumer recycled materials.

  • Products are built to last—some customers still use 20-year-old Hotbox Origins.
  • Newer models like Hotbox 4 are fully recyclable, with disassemblable parts for easier reuse.

As hybrid work models continue evolving, Hotbox is consulting businesses on optimising workspace transitions, reducing friction for employees, and ensuring productivity in flexible work environments.

Hotbox’s mission remains simple: Make workspaces efficient, flexible, and personal. With global adoption and a growing product range, the company is helping redefine the future of work.

So What Do Hotbox Sell?

Hotbox offers a range of portable storage solutions designed to enhance productivity in agile and hybrid work environments. Their product lineup includes

Caddies:

• Hotbox 1: A compact desk caddy for organising work essentials.

• Hotbox 2: A personalised storage solution with customisable covers.

• Hotbox 4: An adaptable desk organiser with a handle that converts into a laptop riser.

• Hotbox Origin: A portable, lockable filing cabinet for secure document storage.

Bags:

• Flow: A portable work bag designed for seamless transitions between workspaces.

• Shuttle: An agile space backpack accommodating both work and personal items.

• Adapt: A flexible bag that transforms into a mobile workstation.

Accessories:

• Folio: For organising small devices.

• Utility Case: For storing stationery and small tech items.

• Utility Pouch: For cables and chargers.

These products are crafted to facilitate efficient, flexible working, whether in the office, at home, or on the move.

Check them out…