The event featured a panel debate on key topics including the great resignation, the importance of workplace experience and the role of food in nurturing employee engagement.
Food and drink were cited as one of the ‘best catalysts’ for engaging people and when looking at cost organisations should look at the value of experience over financial cost.
One of the panellists argued that the experience needs to address sustainability as consumers want to know more, they question where the food has come from, how much waste is there and how is it being managed.
Ali Khan from SHAPE shared the insight from research which has shown that there are 150 factors used to measure if people are delivering to their peak, with one third coming from the individual and two thirds generated from their working conditions.
Alex Kristall, managing director, Corporate Services, Sodexo UK & Ireland and host of the event said: “We believe food fuels our health, wellness and happiness at work, and we are seeing both caterers and high street chains enticing people back with exciting food and drink offers.
“We wanted to share our experience and engage industry experts in a discussion about the role food and drink can play, to help organisations retain and attract talent and what ingredients are needed to help them attract their people back into offices. Not only does great food help to entice people back into the workplace, but it also fuels productivity.
“We enjoyed a lively debate with our panellists, with the discussion brought to life through Ozzie’s amazing mural. It was our pleasure to then serve our guests some delicious food from Fooditude and The Good Eating Company. We look forward to continuing this conversation with our existing and potential clients as we do all we can to support them with the workplace strategies and ambitions.”
Guests were then invited to an interactive food experience designed and delivered by Sodexo’s chefs from Fooditude and The Good Eating Company, showcasing their offerings for organisations looking for an agile business model for their workplace dining offer.