by Ann Withanee — April 8, 2011—Workers are finding bare cupboards and empty coffee pots in the office kitchen, forcing them to seek sustenance outside the workplace. Whether it’s to get food or beverages, U.S. workers are frequently leaving the office to find what they’re craving and it’s eating into their productivity.
New survey results from Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples, Inc., suggest having a fully stocked kitchen, with food, coffee and amenities, can lead to more content and productive employees.
Staples Advantage conducted an online survey of U.S. office workers at nearly 200 businesses of all sizes across the U.S. The survey, conducted in January 2011, asked a series of questions about breakroom habits and the overall impact of a well-stocked breakroom in today’s workplace environment.
The survey found that 73 percent said a well-stocked kitchen would make them happier at work, while 57 percent indicated that kitchen amenities could lead to a more productive workforce.
“Making small investments in the company kitchen can lead to significant benefits in any workplace,” said Lisa Hamblet, vice president for the facility solutions and services business of Staples Advantage. “Our recent survey found that 72 percent viewed the office kitchen as more than just a place to get coffee. To them, it represents a place for impromptu meetings, as well as a space to help keep energy levels high. This provides an opportunity for employers to create a workplace kitchen that boosts their workforce’s productivity and camaraderie.”
Also, nearly 80 percent of respondents said it was important to get away from their desks from time to time to take small breaks in order to stay focused. Many workers hope to find snacks, paper goods and cutlery in their office kitchen that they can use throughout the day.
Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples, Inc., serves organizations of 20 or more employees up to the Fortune 1000, including global businesses, local, state and federal government, healthcare organizations and educational institutions. More information is available at Staples Advantage.
