Blog Layout

Should Employers Provide Tea and Coffee?

February 4, 2021
Should employers provide tea and coffee? The short answer is yes! Find out how providing tea and coffee can affect employee performance.


If there is one thing Americans love, it's caffeinated beverages. A whopping 64% of Americans drink coffee every single day.


What does this statistic tell an employer? If you have an office with employees, you need to be providing tea and coffee service.


Not only are hot beverages good for productivity, but they boost office morale, improve employee retention, and make employees feel like management cares about their workplace experience.


Why should employers provide tea and coffee to their team? We've outlined all of the benefits a workplace beverage station has to offer.


Why Should Employers Provide Tea and Coffee?

Serving coffee in the American workplace dates back to the 1900s.


After years of coffee rising in popularity, companies started administering fifteen-minute workday breaks. These breaks soon evolved into coffee breaks and chats. Thus, the coffee culture we know today was formed.


American employees were so attached to their coffee breaks that workers in the automotive industry went on strike in the 1960s due to the lack of coffee breaks available to them.


Consider a beverage station an investment that yields a profitable ROI. Tea and coffee provided by an employer is a simple way you can accommodate your team. Free tea and coffee at work lead to an extensive range of benefits that you, the employer, can enjoy.


1. Show Your Employees You Care

Do employers have to provide tea and coffee? No. But should an employer provide complimentary hot beverages? Yes.


Creating a coffee station in your office is a simple gesture that goes a long way. It demonstrates that you care about your employees and want to create an accommodating workplace.


When your employees believe management cares about their wellbeing, they perform better and are less likely to leave the company. Happier employees are more productive employees.


In 2019, Staples conducted a happiness survey to gauge what employees valued. According to the results, 68% of respondents said they would feel valued by their organization if their employer invested in the office workspace.


What does that mean for you, the employer?


You don't have to purchase a ping pong table or invest in nap pods like Google. Providing a selection of coffees and teas is an affordable way to invest in your office, and show your employees their efforts are appreciated.


2. Encourage Employees to Take a Break

Employees who chain themselves to their desks aren't doing anyone a favor. Refusing to take a break leads to lower productivity and increases the risk of employee burnout.


Many employees, especially those who are new to the team, believe that hammering out non-stop work will create a good impression. It's up to the employer to design a workspace that encourages hard work but also emphasizes taking breaks.

Forbes reported that the benefits of taking regular breaks include:

  • Releasing stress
  • Refreshing the mind for creative thinking
  • Increasing productivity
  • Improving self-care


A coffee station is an excellent way to send the message that breaks are okay. The coffee serves as a reason for an employee to get up from their desk, stretch their legs, and refuel.


3. Increase Productivity

Coffee improves cognitive performance, sustained attention, and memory. A mid-day cup of joe helps people retain information from meetings, solve problems faster, and focus on tasks.


In addition to mental clarity, people report that coffee makes them feel better. It eliminates fatigue, reduces inflammation, and stimulates dopamine production. Dopamine is a feel-good chemical that comes from your brain. Increased dopamine levels lead to better moods and emotional stability.


That being said, having a coffee station in your office can boost your team's overall productivity rates. Tea also provides similar benefits.


All types of teas are rich in antioxidants that fight off diseases, boost metabolism, and enhance cognitive health. Tea plants contain theanine, a unique amino acid that induces feelings of relaxation without causing drowsiness. Drinking tea is calming and lowers stress levels.


Theanine also reduces the risk of dementia, lowers blood pressure, and incites alertness. It helps people stay focused for long hours, and the added attentiveness decreases the risk of silly mistakes.


With so many health benefits, an employer should make hot tea and coffee in the workplace a priority. Employees will love it, and employers appreciate the boost in focus and productivity.


4. Build Office Camaraderie

You don't need your employees to be best friends, but having a team with strong relationships can heighten productivity, morale, and motivation. It can also help you retain talent and lower employee turnover rate.


It can be difficult for employees to get to know everyone in the office while being seated at their desks. That's where an in-office beverage station comes in handy.


Providing a central place where employees can gather, chat, and refuel is the only icebreaker you'll need in the office. Making new connections builds a more cohesive team, which benefits your business.


5. Save Time

Finally, having employee facilities in the workplace eliminates the need for midday coffee runs to the local Starbucks.


Having coffee at-the-ready is convenient and saves employees from taking an extended break to the local coffee cafe. It's helpful for employees who don't have time to drive somewhere for a quick cup of joe. And it's beneficial for employers who want to eliminate office time wasters.


The bottom line is your employees are going to need coffee or tea at some point. Would you rather them leave the office or fill their mugs a few feet from their desks?


Start Setting up Your Office Beverage Station

Should employers provide tea and coffee? Yes, if they want to boost productivity, improve morale, and show employees they care about their wellbeing.


Now that you know why coffee and tea in the workplace is essential, it's time to create your beverage station. And we're the ones who can help.


Call us today at: (402) 392-2600 to learn more about how you can get high-quality coffee delivered to your office.

coffee cup
By Jay Encell March 12, 2025
Learn to set up an office coffee station that energizes your team. Follow these tips to make it the ideal spot for productivity and relaxation today.
By Jay Encell February 19, 2025
Discover the top ten reasons why investing in a workplace coffee machine is a good idea.
By Jay Encell February 3, 2025
Enhance your office environment with the ideal coffee solutions. Explore how great coffee for office spaces can boost productivity and happier employees.
By Jay Encell January 13, 2025
Learn why you should invest in on-site appliances and coffee to help your workers get their caffeine fix.
By Sandra Vazquez December 16, 2024
Discover the benefits of a healthier and refreshed office when you have fresh, clean, and safe water. Learn more about the power of office water coolers here.
water dispenser
By Jay Encell October 15, 2024
Discover the best hot water dispenser options available. Explore features, reviews, and get expert buying advice. Choose the right one for your home today!
By Sandra Vazquez August 14, 2024
Take a look below to discover the best coffee brands that employees love!
By Jay Encell August 14, 2024
Keep reading to discover the essential equipment that can elevate your office coffee experience to the next level.
By Jay Encell June 19, 2024
Did you know that staying properly hydrated can boost workplace productivity by up to 14% ? Filtered water dispensers provide a convenient solution for pure drinking water in the office. So what's the best filtered water dispenser for your needs? Join Ideal as we look into the top filtered water dispensers available! Filtered Water Dispensers Filtered water dispensers are devices that provide clean drinking water by removing impurities and contaminants . They come in various types, including countertop, freestanding, under-sink, and bottle-less models. Countertop dispensers are compact and fit easily on kitchen counters or office break room tables. They're easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice for small offices and homes. Freestanding models are larger and often found in office settings . They provide more water storage and usually have both hot and cold water options. Under-sink dispensers are hidden away, keeping your counters clear. These systems often provide a continuous supply of filtered water directly from the tap. Bottle-less dispensers are connected directly to the water supply, eliminating the need for bulky water bottles. This option is cost-effective and reduces plastic waste. Health Benefits of Filtered Water Drinking filtered water offers several health benefits. It removes contaminants like chlorine, lead, and bacteria, making the water safer and more pleasant to drink. Clean water improves hydration , which is important for maintaining energy levels and cognitive function throughout the day. Filtered water also enhances the taste and smell of water, encouraging people to drink more. When water tastes better, people are more likely to stay hydrated, which supports their overall health. Proper hydration helps with digestion, keeps skin healthy, and can even improve mood. Using filtered water dispensers at home or in the office ensures that everyone has access to high-quality drinking water. This promotes better health by reducing the intake of harmful substances found in unfiltered tap water. By investing in a good water filtration system, you are making a commitment to the well-being of everyone who uses it. Best Water Dispensers for the Office When looking for the best filtered water dispensers, it's helpful to compare some of the top models available. Each has unique features that cater to different needs. One popular option is the Avalon A5 Bottleless Water Cooler. This model connects directly to your water line, providing continuous hot and cold water without the need for large bottles. It has a dual filtration system, including a sediment filter and a carbon block filter, which ensures clean and great-tasting water. The Avalon A5 is also energy-efficient and has an easy-to-use control panel. Another excellent choice is the Brio Self-Cleaning Bottleless Water Cooler. This model offers advanced filtration, including a UV light to kill bacteria and viruses. The self-cleaning feature keeps the dispenser sanitary with minimal maintenance. It also provides both hot and cold water, making it versatile for different needs. The Brio dispenser is known for its sleek design and reliable performance. Other Options The AquaTru Countertop Water Purifier is perfect for those looking for a compact and portable option. It uses a four-stage reverse osmosis system to remove a wide range of contaminants, including lead, chlorine, and fluoride. The AquaTru is easy to set up and doesn't require any plumbing, making it ideal for renters or those who want a simple solution. Its small size doesn't compromise its ability to provide high-quality, purified water. The ZeroWater ZP-010 Water Filter Pitcher is an affordable and portable option for smaller spaces. It uses a five-stage filtration system to remove impurities and improve the taste of tap water. The pitcher has a built-in water quality meter, so you can always be sure of the water's purity. It's a great choice for individuals or small families who want an easy and cost-effective way to get clean drinking water. Choosing the Right Dispenser for Your Needs First, consider the size of your space and the number of people who will use the dispenser. For a small office or home, a countertop or under-sink model might be best. These options save space and still provide plenty of clean water. For larger offices, a freestanding or bottle-less model can handle higher demand and reduce the hassle of frequent refills. Next, think about your budget. Filtered water dispensers come in a range of prices. Higher-end models offer advanced features like hot and cold water options. They also often have self-cleaning functions and multiple filtration stages. If you're looking for something more affordable, there are basic models that still provide good filtration without extra features. You should also consider the maintenance required. Some dispensers need regular filter changes and cleaning to keep them working well. Look for models with easy-to-replace filters and clear maintenance instructions. If convenience is important, choose a model with features like filter change indicators or self-cleaning systems. Installation and Maintenance Tips Proper installation and maintenance of your filtered water dispenser ensure it runs efficiently and provides clean water. Start by choosing a location with easy access to a water line and electrical outlet. Make sure the area is flat and stable to avoid any spills or accidents. For under-sink models, ensure there's enough space and that the plumbing connections are secure. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your dispenser in top condition. Most units require filter changes every few months. Check the manufacturer's guidelines for the specific timeline. Some models have indicators that alert you when it's time to replace the filter, making maintenance easier. Always use the recommended filters to ensure compatibility and effectiveness. Cleaning the dispenser regularly helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants. Wipe down the exterior and clean the drip tray as needed. For models with a self-cleaning feature, activate this function according to the instructions. Office Water Solutions Choosing the right filtered water dispensers can greatly enhance the health and hydration of your home or office. At Ideal Pure Water, we've fanatic about delivering clean and safe water to your home or office. And the results speak for themselves. Almost 8,000 local business and residential customers rely on Ideal Pure Water for their essential drinks. That's more than two million gallons of purified water every year. Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your office water needs !
Bottled water
By Jay Encell May 30, 2024
Keeping your employees well-hydrated is vital to their peak performance. Learn the benefits of offering your staff pure bottled water here.
More Posts
Share by: