Workplace lunch schemes can have a huge impact on employee wellbeing and productivity. So we spoke to a great company that really understands the importance of employee wellbeing and how the lunch program plays a role in office morale.
Here are eight elements thatJohnny C. Rieck, COO at Boligexperten, andTina Svane, Receptionist at Boligexperten, think you should focus on if the lunch program is to become a positive contributor to daily life.
Boligexperten is a leading property management company in Denmark, and with the wall in the common room showing pictures of each employee in a timeline, it is clear that this is a company that prioritizes job satisfaction - a priority that is rewarded through the long seniority of its employees. A full third of the company's 65 or so employees have been with the company for over 15 years, which as Johnny mentioned, "definitely shows on the bottom line".
It's not just about the food itself, but also the atmosphere and presentation. Creating a positive dining experience where employees feel welcome and comfortable can have a significant impact on their job satisfaction and well-being.
Food waste is a widespread concern and minimizing waste of both resources and food is crucial. The company is committed to reducing food waste and is actively working to be more sustainable.
Employee feedback and preferences are crucial to adapt the lunch program to their needs. The company is dedicated to listening to employees and adapting the menu and offerings accordingly. Extra snacks such as pesto, days with extra cold cuts and cheese boards are offered to accommodate employee requests.
Variety in the fruit selection can make daily snacks more interesting and satisfying for employees. Including different types of fruit allows employees to choose from a wide variety of healthy options.
Working with suppliers is crucial to minimize food waste and optimize the menu. The company works closely with suppliers to ensure that the menu fits employees' needs and expectations.
Making the dining area inviting and cozy is key to creating a positive dining experience for employees. This creates a comfortable atmosphere where employees can enjoy their lunch break. The area where employees eat their lunch is not a typical boring canteen; it's cozy and even homey.
The addition of healthy snacks like carrots and cucumbers gives employees more options to choose healthier alternatives and satisfy their hunger between meals.
Collecting feedback from employees and giving the supplier ratings - sometimes with comments - and actively collaborating with suppliers is key to maintaining the quality of the lunch program. This ensures that Boligexperten can adapt to changes in employee preferences and needs, which is crucial for a successful lunch program.
Optimizing the workplace lunch program is a way to invest in employee well-being and efficiency. By taking into account employee feedback and preferences, minimizing food waste, creating a positive dining experience and working closely with suppliers, companies can create a lunch program that fits their culture and employee needs.
If your company is also considering optimizing its lunch program, these insights and thoughts from the interview can inspire you to get started. Remember, lunch is not just about satisfying hunger, but also about creating a positive workplace experience.