The pantry is an essential area in any modern workplace, serving as a space for employees to unwind, socialise, generate ideas, and build stronger working relationships. As a place for recharging and enjoying meals or snacks, a well-designed office pantry can significantly boost morale, productivity, and job satisfaction. Although setting up a good office pantry may seem daunting, it's not as complicated as it appears.
Pro*3 Institutional Catering is a leading provider of pantry management services, and we share some features you should note to ensure your office meets the needs of your employees.
Ensure that there is ample space for employees to sit, relax, and eat
One key element of a good pantry is to provide ample space for employees to sit, relax, and eat comfortably. Be sure that there are enough tables and chairs to accommodate everyone comfortably, such that your employees have a comfortable space to enjoy their meals or snacks during breaks. Also consider adding comfortable seating options such as couches or lounge chairs to make the space more inviting and relaxing.
Keep it a vibrant, safe place they can rest in during lunch
A dull and drab space can make employees feel uninspired and unproductive. Therefore, consider adding some plants, artwork, or colourful accents to liven up the office pantry. Also, make sure the pantry is well-lit, clean, and secure to create a welcoming atmosphere and ensure employees feel safe. While natural lighting is the best type of lighting to have, lamps and overhead lights can also be used to brighten up the room, or to create mood lighting for relaxing.
Ensure that it is always well stocked with food, drinks, and the necessary appliances
A good pantry is one which must be well-stocked with a variety of healthy snacks, fresh fruit, and beverages, including water, coffee, tea, and assorted packaged drinks. Having a balanced variety of snacks fuel employees with nutrition and energy to focus throughout the day. Coupled with a well-equipped setup with tools such as fridges/chillers, microwaves and coffee machines provide your employees a complete and enjoyable experience. Alternatively, you may engage professional corporate pantry services to get an assessment based on your workplace’s requirements.
Ensure that there are enough cleaning supplies and sinks that employees can use to keep the space clean
Maintaining a clean and hygienic office pantry is crucial to promote employee health and wellbeing. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that the pantry is always stocked with cleaning supplies such as disinfectant wipes, paper towels, and trash bags. Additionally, make sure that there are enough sinks and soap dispensers for employees to wash their hands and keep the space clean.
Ensure a comfortable seating layout
The last essential element of a good office pantry is a comfortable seating layout. The seating arrangement should be strategically designed to promote interaction and collaboration among employees. Consider arranging tables in small groups or adding communal tables to foster teamwork and communication. Keep in mind to also have enough space between tables and chairs to allow employees to move around freely.
A well-equipped and well-stocked office pantry is a valuable asset that can boost employee morale, productivity, and job satisfaction. By following these five essential elements, you can ensure that your corporate pantry service meets the needs of your employees, creating a more enjoyable and productive workplace.
Searching for reliable and efficient office pantry services? The team at Pro*3 Institutional Catering provides tailored pantry services to meet the unique needs of your company and employees. Get in touch with our team today to learn more.