There are few things people enjoy more than a hot, fresh meal. Unfortunately, without the proper equipment, hot meals may be hard to come by in the workplace, especially without a full-service cafeteria. As today’s workers become more accustomed to remote and hybrid work, they may also be used to lunch coming off of their stovetops. Now that more worksites compete with the comfort of employees’ homes, workers expect more from their employers and what’s provided in the office or worksite.

When workers need quick, convenient food, they shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or flavor. They should be able to enjoy their favorite hot meals in their break areas. Thankfully, hot food solutions make this possible.

With the latest in food preparation and holding technology, a variety of solutions offer the flexibility to serve employees a delicious, hassle-free dining experience that allows them to get their food while it’s hot.

A Shift in Workplace Dining Culture

Modern workplaces are increasingly focused on employee well-being. It’s become commonplace for organizations to celebrate their people and offer the best amenities and perks that will keep workers engaged and satisfied. Food plays a big role in keeping workers happy and healthy.

Plenty of companies recognize the value in providing access to snacks and meals in the workplace. Food is a great way to bring people together and increase collaboration and socialization. Providing food can also improve company morale, boost productivity, and foster community among staff.

Investing in hot food solutions allows companies to provide workers with technology that caters to diverse dietary preferences and elevates dining and breaktime experiences. Hot food allows you to expand your offerings and make sure all of your workers are properly cared for.

Canteen’s Hot Food Solutions

Unattended Retail Solutions

Providing hot food doesn’t have to be a big production. Unattended retail solutions for hot food keep things simple and provide a low-maintenance experience for those who do not want to staff an operation. Our unattended options include heating units and advanced vending technology that prepare freshly prepared food for your team.

Our heating units prepare hot and wholesome fresh meals using innovative smart cooker technology. This allows your staff to enjoy grab-and-go meals that are hot and wholesome.

Advanced vending technology allows the user to enjoy freshly made snacks and meals like baked goods, oven-made meals, and global cuisines such as ramen, noodles, and rice bowls.

Hot Food Storage

Once meals are prepared, they should be kept at the right temperature until serving. Advanced thermal retention systems, such as heated food wells, heated food lockers, and warming cabinets ensure that dishes remain hot and fresh without compromising quality. These systems help keep food at optimal serving temperature, allowing employees to enjoy their meals as if they were just made.

Third-Party Providers

We work with third-party vendors to supply fresh food to your workplace. This allows you to enjoy the convenience and variety of catered meals while relying on a trusted partner to facilitate your dining needs.

In working with our third party partners, Canteen offers expansive solutions tailored to your work environment. Whether you’re looking to regularly supply your workplace with on-site services or to provide a wide array of options for a one-time event, Canteen’s third-party solutions can elevate your workplace dining experience with familiar brands or a customized menu.

Attended

As on-site dining services become more popular among workplaces, more businesses may want to implement fully equipped food halls or cafés with various food options. For workplaces wanting to offer a fully-staffed dining solution for their workers, there is the option to provide attended dining experiences.

Canteen’s attended dining solutions come in two models. 

One model provides diners the opportunity to select from a variety of fast, casual concepts, conveying fully realized thematic dining experiences that offer wide-ranging variety and speedy, convenient service.

The second model exists alongside a coffee bar that provides fresh, exceptional coffee. When your associates need a quick bite, such as a sandwich or soufflé, the Tradecraft Bistro features a rotating menu of café-inspired dishes to enjoy alongside freshly brewed coffee and tea beverages.

What Employees Want from Workplace Dining

According to a 2023 Mintel report, 60% of workers across all age groups say they are scrutinizing employee benefits more closely than they used to. Workers have come to expect more from the benefits offered in their workplaces. This is especially true of younger generations, like Millennials and Gen Z. These generations are becoming key players in the workforce and are influencing overall attitudes about work environments. 

Providing meals and snacks at work is a great way to improve employees’ overall happiness at work. With advancements in hot food technology, it’s now simpler than ever to give employees exactly what they want with the solutions you implement in your workplaces.

Customization and Personalization

As workplaces become more diverse, the demand for customizable meal options is growing. Workers want to tailor their food options to reflect their dietary restrictions and preferences. Advancements in dining technology enable employees to personalize their dining experiences through apps and kiosks.

Sustainability and Waste Reduction

Younger generations are also increasingly concerned with sustainability efforts and expect their employers to make eco-conscious decisions. The future of hot food solutions aligns with growing sustainability efforts. 

With advancements in food storage and preparation technologies, businesses can reduce food waste by accurately forecasting demand and preparing only what’s necessary. Energy-efficient cooking appliances help minimize the environmental impact of food service operations, aligning with the values of many employees today.

Social Dining Experiences

Creating a more social workplace can also greatly benefit your organization. One great way to bring people together is by offering food and beverages at your worksite. The integration of technology and dining experiences in food services can foster a more social dining atmosphere. Communal dining spaces equipped with interactive ordering systems and engaging displays can encourage collaboration and connection among employees. The experience of sharing a meal together can strengthen workplace relationships, promoting teamwork and a sense of belonging.

 

The future of hot food solutions in the workplace is bright, driven by advancements in food preparation and holding technology. As companies continue to prioritize employee well-being and satisfaction, investing in high-quality dining experiences will be a key differentiator. By embracing these innovations, workplaces can meet employee demands and create a vibrant and supportive culture centered around good food and community.