A Look at London’s Workplace Coffee Culture
At work, we all know the feeling of needing a little pick-me-up. Whether you're diving into tasks or wrapping up the day, there's something special about that rich, aromatic brew that fuels our productivity. Whether you're glued to your desk or enjoying a moment of relaxation, nothing beats a cup of coffee to add a touch of warmth and comfort to your day.
But why is coffee so synonymous with the workplace? In the UK, coffee has a deep-rooted cultural significance dating back to the mid-17th century when the first coffee houses opened in London. These places weren't just for sipping your latte; they became hubs for intellectuals, where discussions ranged from politics to business deals, all fueled by the stimulating effects of coffee. Fast forward to the 21st century, and the workplace is evolving to accommodate the changing needs of employees. With the rise of remote work and flexible schedules, individuals are seeking environments that foster collaboration, creativity, and productivity. Just as coffee houses once buzzed with lively debates, today's workplaces are embracing diverse environments to inspire innovation and teamwork.
But what’s office coffee culture like in the capital, and how are things evolving? London’s workforce are returning to the office in numbers ahead of most other European capitals. Office occupancy is now >62%, compared to 50% in Feb 23 according to Savills Nov23. Great office coffee is therefore more important than ever. We’ve written this article to dig a little deeper into the value of a nice coffee at work, expanding on why it’s such an important part of being a Londoner today.
The impact of coffee on workplace productivity:
So why do so many people use coffee for productivity? Coffee may help some people maintain alertness and energy levels thanks to its caffeine content. When coffee is consumed, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain where it ‘fires up’ certain neurons which may improve memory, mood, energy and cognitive function, when consumed in moderation. The results of this in a more practical sense can be that a workforce feels more energized and creative, making them generally more capable and effective in their role. When facing a long day, especially in the office, it’s only natural to feel tired, lacking in focus, or even just plain bored at points. Coffee helps people push through those feelings and get back on track, whether early in the morning or as a little afternoon boost!
Diverse coffee preferences among employees:
One of the things that makes London so amazing is its diverse population – people from all walks of life coming together in a big melting pot of culture, community, and of course, coffee! While in plenty of cases, the best coffee in London is simply the closest one, recent years have seen a huge expansion of all the different forms of coffee that people enjoy daily.
For plenty of time, people have got by with pour-over pots, cafetières, and shudder… instant coffee. But now, there are so many options for a nice cup of joe! With access to grinders, milk steamers and more, professionals in London enjoy everything from a classic cappuccino, to cold-brew matcha fusions. You can take it black and strong, light and sweet, or anything in between, because that’s what London is all about.
Coffee rituals and team building:
Beyond being a caffeine delivery system, there’s a lot more to enjoy about a nice cup of coffee at work. We’re of course talking about the simple ritual of sitting together, enjoying a cup of something warm (or iced), and having a little chinwag! Everyone needs work friends – they’re the people who keep things interesting throughout the day, reminding you that there’s more to a job than simply collecting a paycheck!
And what better way to facilitate socialising than a coffee break? These little moments can be the birthplace of lifelong friendships, career-changing ideas, or simple conversations about the weather. Either way, taking a break and embracing a different kind of grind has become an essential part of office wellbeing.
Creating a coffee-friendly workplace:
So how do you make an office as coffee-friendly as possible? It’s important to remember that commuting into work isn’t always the easiest. Plenty of employees will have to travel by bus, tube, or car, for an hour or more most days – with strike action and delays more prevalent than ever, a nice cup of coffee on arrival makes all the difference!
Here are some tips and things to provide to create a nice atmosphere for coffee at work!
Quality coffee: Staff shouldn’t be expected to make do with freeze-dried granules – make sure they have access to quality beans at a bare minimum
Coffee nooks: Sure, people might drink coffee whilst working, but let a break be a break by creating a little coffee nook with some comfy seats away from the action
Plenty of options: Ensure that your staff can savour their coffee just the way they like it, with the appropriate machines, ingredients, and extras which add a touch of magic and creativity
Alternatives: Not everyone likes coffee (weirdos) but everyone deserves a coffee break! Make sure you keep teas, juices, and more for the caffeine-averse
Decaf delights: Because, hey, not everyone's into the caffeine craze! Provide a lineup of decaf options so everyone can enjoy a cuppa without the jitters. Check out our article on the magic of decaf and find your perfect blend
Blend bonanza: Give your coffee aficionados something to cheer about with a choice of blends, from the bold punch of Robusta to the smooth sophistication of arabica. With options, there's a brew for every mood and moment
Sustainable sourcing: Sip responsibly! Pick a B-Corp certified supplier who operates with sustainability in mind at all times. It's coffee with a conscience, making your break even more satisfying
You don’t have to transform your office into a Parisian café, but it’s important to respect the value that coffee breaks have for employees!
The role of iKhofi in enhancing workplace coffee culture:
If you’re looking to take your workplace coffee culture to the next level, why not consider working with iKhofi? We’re one of London’s premier providers of premium beans and high-quality machines, bringing the bean-to-cup experience to offices all over the city.
Our range of machines includes smaller options, perfect for burgeoning businesses running off 50 cups a day to larger corporate offices with capacity for over 500 cups in a day! With machines that can make hot chocolates, lattes, and more at the press of a button, we’re the perfect collaborator to accommodate all sorts of coffee preferences!
Customer testimonials and success stories:
We’re not just blowing steam into milk when we talk about what we can do for offices – we put our beans where our mouths are, with plenty of customer testimonials to back us up!
Here are a few reviews from our happy clients who have used iKhofi in their offices: