New report outlines the trends reshaping workplace dining

Five major shifts are redefining how UK employees eat, break and experience food and wellbeing at work according to Compass Group UK & Ireland’s latest Eating at Work report.

Drawing on insights from Compass Group’s global research study, developed in partnership with Mintel and based on responses from 30,000 workers worldwide, the UK version of the report highlights a workforce seeking healthier habits, better food experiences, and workplaces that value their time, health and ambitions. It is clear that expectations are higher than ever of the workplace, alongside the experience, facilities and culture that are created there.

The report highlights key findings from each of the five themes and shares actions that organisations can take to support the future of the workplace experience.

The five themes include:

1. Balanced Worklife

Break culture in the UK is declining, impacting wellbeing and productivity for colleagues across the country.

• Break frequency has dropped from 68 per cent to 60 per cent (taking breaks three to five times per week).
• One in five employees now take a break of under 15 minutes.
• 54 per cent feel breaks are undervalued, with hybrid workers significantly more likely to engage in self‑care than fully onsite teams.

2. My Food at Work

Employees increasingly expect workplace restaurants to mirror the high street in variety and atmosphere.

• Only three in 10 UK workers have access to a workplace restaurant.
• 63 per cent want onsite dining that matches high‑street standards.
• Snacking is surging, with 32 per cent of Gen Z snacking three or more times per day, up from 20 per cent in 2023.

3. Ease & Efficiency

Technology is reshaping the dining journey, but the insights show that people still value human connections as a vital part of their experience.

• Value for money is the number one driver of choice.
• Most people prefer a human greeting – 52 per cent vs 10 per cent digital.
• Digital tools such as loyalty programmes and kiosk ordering are seen as enhancing the experience.

4. My Healthy Lifestyle

Employees increasingly view the working week as a platform for long‑term health.

• UK workers average just six hours 49 minutes of sleep per night – among the lowest globally.
• 54 per cent say eating a nutrient rich diet is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Three in five believe movement is vital to health, yet activity levels remain low.

5. Sustainability & Social Value

Employees expect organisations to lead on sustainability and show visible action.

• 38 per cent cite cutting food waste as the most impactful sustainability action.
• 75 per cent of UK employees agree it is the responsibility of restaurants to make menu options more sustainable.
• However, only 11 per cent of Brits prioritise ethical or sustainable credentials when choosing where to eat.

Michelle Sanders, Chief Growth Officer, Compass Group UK & Ireland said: “This report offers useful insights into what people want and expect from food at work – what is clear is that this is no longer just about sustenance – it’s about experience. The workplace is changing, as are the workforce. By understanding these shifts and responding with creativity and purpose, we can transform workplace dining into a driver of wellbeing, engagement and sustainability.”

The full report can be found here.