The report explores how lunchtime habits have evolved in the workplace, with greener food options and communal dining experiences leading the charge as employees seek new and exciting cuisines in the workplace.
Matt Ephgrave, managing director at Just Eat for Business, commented: “This year’s report highlights yet again how food plays a central role in building connections in the workplace.
“The rise in communal meals, the continued shift towards healthier options, and the growing love for global flavours demonstrate how workplace dining is adapting to meet the needs of a more dynamic, hybrid workforce. It’s exciting to see these trends continue to evolve and we look forward to supporting businesses as they embrace these new food habits into 2025.”
Key 2024 Highlights:
Increased Demand for Diverse Dietary Options
Gluten-free orders experienced a notable 24% growth, while vegan orders rose by 13% and vegetarian options saw a 9% increase - highlighting a growing demand for food options that cater to diverse dietary needs and lifestyles.
The Rise of Communal Meals
Communal dining is on the rise, with buffet and platter orders soaring by 42% in 2024, compared to the previous year. As hybrid working continues, shared meals have become an essential way to strengthen connections and encourage collaboration among colleagues on in-office days.
A World of Flavours
Office workers are spicing up their lunch breaks with a diverse range of cuisines, reflecting a growing appetite for variety and global tastes in today’s workforce. Japanese cuisine saw the largest growth in orders, increasing by 69%, with Italian (55%) and Vietnamese (50%) orders not far behind. Also in the top five were American (30%) and Mexican (17%).
The Breakfast Boom
Morning meetings just got tastier. Breakfast continues to be a popular food delivery choice for office workers, with orders rising by 14% this year. From croissants to breakfast burritos, it’s clear that the first meal of the day is also becoming one of the most popular opportunities for collaboration in the workplace.
Midweek Meal Peaks
Midweek remains the busiest time for office food orders, with Thursdays accounting for over a quarter (26%) of all orders. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are also popular days for lunchtime orders, each accounting for 23% of total orders. This highlights the consistency of midweek office occupancy, with employees continuing to rely on convenient lunchtime options during their in-office days.
Pizza Remains Popular
Pizza remains a workplace favourite, with orders increasing by over a third (37%) from 2023 to 2024. This surge highlights pizza’s enduring appeal for team lunches and office celebrations, solidifying its status as a top choice for shared, convenient meals in the workplace.