15 Feb Chicago Break Room Additions
Great-tasting food, cold drinks, and coffee are a must in any break room. But, did you know that there are several other things that every Chicago break room should have?
Adding some or all of the following categories can turn a bare-bones space into a break room that your employees will want to visit daily.
The Not-so-Extra Extras
Paper Products
Basic supplies such as napkins, paper towels, eating utensils, and plates, bowls, and cups should be offered and easy to find. After visiting the micro-market for lunch or the vending machine for an afternoon snack, employees shouldn’t have to go on a hunt to find a fork or knife or a napkin.
More Break Room Flavor
Almost everyone adds some type of additional seasoning to their food. For snacks or meals, that often means salt, pepper, ketchup, mustard, mayo, or hot sauce. The key is to offer the condiments that go best with your break room’s menu.
Coffee Station
Unless your Chicago employees only drink their coffee black, a variety of coffee additions should be available. Common options include sugar, artificial sweeteners, alternative sweeteners like honey, creamer and non-dairy creamer options, and flavorings. Paper products such as stir sticks, cups, lids, and coffee sleeves will make sure everyone has what they need.
The Break Room Space
A break room should not only be a separate space from the rest of the workplace, but it should also feel different. Let’s look at two important components.
Seating
Offer multiple types of seating that encourage conversation, a coffee or meal break, or a few minutes of relaxation. That might include different areas with sofas, tables and chairs, booths or even a rocking chair or two. And don’t forget to offer easily accessible outlets or charging stations.
Break Room Décor
Lack of color or bland colors have been shown to make people feel sad or gloomy, and that is especially true at work where access to the outdoors can be limited. Yellows evoke friendliness and cheer while blues and greens create a sense of peace and tranquility. One word of caution; before running to the paint store, remember that colors affect people differently.
To make your break room more appealing and relaxing, add natural lighting and décor such as plants, wood, or water. Plants are especially functional as they help clean the office air too.
Small additions or changes in your Chicago break room can make a big difference. But you don’t have to do it alone. We can help. For more information about our vending services or to update your current space or menu, please call Fox Vending at (800) 694-2800.