Glasses of refreshing lemonade on marble table, above view and space for text. Summer drink


<p>If the cold drink machines in your organisation only stock sugary, high-calorie beverages, you might find they don’t sell particularly well. Following the introduction of the ‘sugar tax’ in the UK, the total sugar sold in soft drinks <a href="https://www.instituteforgovernment.org.uk/article/explainer/sugar-tax#:~:text=Despite%20these%20criticisms,100ml.%5B15">dropped by 35.4% between 2015 and 2019</a>, showing that consumers are increasingly likely to choose healthier beverages.</p>



<p>However, people aren’t just looking for drinks that are healthier than their previous choices; they’re looking for drinks that can actively support their physical health. In this article, we’re going to look at the rise of wellness beverages, and what you need to be stocking your cold drinks vending machines with to meet your employees’ needs.</p>



<h3><strong>The trends driving beverage sales</strong></h3>



<p>With millennials making up the <a href="https://firstup.io/uk/blog/key-statistics-millennials-in-the-workplace/#:~:text=Millennials%20already%20are%20the%20largest,be%20made%20up%20of%20Millennials.">largest percentage of the global workforce</a>, this can heavily influence preferences when stocking your organisation’s cold drink machines. Here are some of the key beverage trends to consider. </p>



<h3><strong>Wellness</strong> </h3>



<p>As consumers continue to learn more about health and nutrition, they’ve begun to consciously choose beverages that support health and wellbeing. From boosting their immunity by increasing their vitamin intake to cutting out ingredients like sugar, caffeine and dairy. There are many different ways that drinks such as smoothies can contribute towards overall wellness. </p>



<h3><strong>Low sugar</strong> </h3>



<p>Restrictions on advertising for products high in fat, salt or sugar could mean an increase in the awareness of, and demand for, low-sugar drinks. It’s therefore likely that your employees will be actively seeking out specific brands that may not traditionally have been included in cold drinks vending machines. </p>



<h3><strong>Wellness beverages for your workplace </strong></h3>



<p>Choosing the right types of beverages will turn your cold drinks vending machine into a destination instead of a last resort. If you’re looking to stock drinks your employees will love, there are lots of different types of wellness beverages to choose from. </p>



<h3><strong>Ionised water</strong> </h3>



<p>Ionised water has been linked with <a href="https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-is-alkaline-water">many health benefits</a>, although some believe that this is more about marketing than science. However, it’s low in impurities and high in minerals, making it a healthy and refreshing choice. </p>



<h3><strong>Flavoured water</strong> </h3>



<p>For those who crave something a little sweeter, flavoured water offers a more satisfying taste than plain water. Naturally flavoured still, sparkling and soda waters make great health-conscious swaps for those looking to cut out sugary fizzy drinks. </p>



<h3><strong>Vitamin drinks</strong> </h3>



<p>There are many drinks on the market that are fortified with additional vitamins, including still and sparkling water, juices and smoothies. While some simply offer a boost of a specific vitamin, others provide 100% of a person’s essential vitamins. </p>



<h3><strong>Kombucha</strong> </h3>



<p>Kombucha is a fermented tea-based drink, often sweetened and flavoured with natural ingredients such as fruit and ginger. It comes with 2,000 years of history and a variety of health claims, and it’s a great low-calorie option. </p>



<h3><strong>Sugar-free soft drinks</strong> </h3>



<p>Fizzy drinks are the bread and butter of cold drink machines, and many of your employees will be looking for healthier alternatives to these classics. From light, diet or ‘zero’ versions of well-known products to indie manufacturers selling only naturally sweetened beverages, there’s never been more choice in sugar-free soft drinks. </p>



<h3><strong>Natural energy drinks</strong> </h3>



<p>As the day wears on, employees may need a little pick-me-up, and natural energy drinks offer a great alternative to coffee. These beverages include natural ingredients such as green tea, ginseng, yerba mate, guarana and ginkgo biloba. </p>



<h3><strong>Protein shakes</strong> </h3>



<p>Protein helps to support muscle growth, making it a popular supplement for those with an interest in health and fitness. Many ready-to-drink protein shakes are filling and nutritious, helping to boost concentration and productivity.</p>



<h3>Stock your cold drink machines with wellness beverages </h3>



<p>When you choose <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/snacks-drinks/">cold drinks vending machines</a> and <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/micromarket-smart-fridge/">smart fridges</a> from Your Refreshments, you get access to a wide range of beverages, including smoothies and low-sugar options to promote healthy choices in your organisation. </p>



<p>If you’d like to learn more about stocking your cold drink machines with delicious beverages your employees actually want to drink, speak to a member of our friendly team on 020 7082 5555.</p>


<strong>The rise of wellness beverages: Exploring health-boosting options</strong>

From bean to brew: the art of the perfect vending machine coffee


<p>The perfect cup of vending machine coffee is so much more than a quick beverage. It’s part of a daily ritual followed by millions of people around the world. With its rich aromas and warming flavours, freshly brewed coffee creates a welcoming atmosphere and fuels productivity, particularly in shared working environments.</p>



<p>With so rich a selection available, coffee vending machines are becoming a popular fixture in offices and break rooms across the UK. Workers are realising that vending machine coffee doesn’t have to compromise on the taste and quality they enjoy in local coffee shops. They also appreciate that it offers a more affordable and convenient solution than buying a takeaway coffee, bringing further benefits to the workplace.</p>



<p>But what ensures great quality, taste and aroma for the perfect coffee at the touch of a button? Read on to learn how Your Refreshments ensures an uplifting experience with every cup of our bean-to-cup coffee.</p>



<h3><strong>Creating the perfect conditions</strong></h3>



<p>Great coffee starts with rich, high-quality beans.</p>



<p>Fairtrade is the benchmark for sustainable coffee, and we’re proud to offer a complete range of Fairtrade vending machine coffee. Your Refreshments directly supports the Rwandan co-operative <a href="https://www.pointfoundation.co.uk/">Point Foundation</a>, which is where we source our first-class Caffe Praego coffee beans.</p>



<p>Rwanda’s sub-Saharan high altitudes, tropical rainfalls and volcanic soils create ideal growing conditions for beans. From pick to pour, Caffe Praego supplies the best speciality coffee with an aromatic and distinct taste.</p>



<p>Not only does our coffee taste fantastic, but it also has a positive social impact. 10% of the profits from our coffee sales go directly to the Point Foundation to support the families that grow the beans. This means that when you choose Your Refreshments as your bean-to-cup coffee supplier, you also support the Point Foundation’s work.</p>



<h3><strong>Using the right equipment</strong></h3>



<p>In today’s thriving coffee market, there’s no end of tools you can purchase to help craft the perfect coffee, including milk frothers, handheld whisks and coffee tampers. Or, you can rely on a machine to do all of the work for you.</p>



<p>At Your Refreshments, we’re proud to supply quality bean-to-cup coffee vending machines, so that you can get an authentic, barista-like coffee experience in your workplace. Our machines:</p>



<ul>
<li>Serve premium espresso-based coffees</li>



<li>Use precision grinders to create high street-quality coffee in seconds</li>



<li>Provide a range of coffees, from speedy espressos to creamy lattes</li>



<li>Use modern and innovative technology to create barista-grade beverages.</li>
</ul>



<p>As we can also supply plant-based milks in our machines, dietary requirements won’t get in the way of enjoying a great-tasting bean-to-cup coffee.</p>



<p><strong>Here’s a selection of our </strong><strong>coffee vending machines</strong><strong></strong></p>



<p><strong>Coffetek Neo</strong></p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/coffee-vending-machines/coffetek-neo/">Coffetek Neo</a> floor-standing coffee vending machine provides a capacity and durability suitable for high footfall environments. Some of the key features include:</p>



<ul>
<li>Energy saving mode to save up to 30% in energy consumption</li>



<li>A coffee shop menu complete with all of the popular beverages</li>



<li>Dispensing of recyclable 12oz takeaway-style cups.</li>
</ul>



<p>This model is also available with a cashless payment system and a 10” or 15” media screen.</p>



<p><strong>Vitro S5 MIA</strong></p>



<p>This coffee vending machine features the latest European coffee technology with a fresh milk system that provides luxurious milk foam. Some of the <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/coffee-vending-machines/vitro-s5-mia/">Vitro S5 MIA</a>’s key features include:</p>



<ul>
<li>A high capacity capable of serving 250+ beverages every day</li>



<li>Easy refills, so you can top up the ingredients in seconds for a smooth service</li>



<li>Programmable recipe settings to configure your drink to your cup.</li>
</ul>



<p>This model also provides up to 20 speciality coffee options.</p>



<p><strong>Franke A600</strong></p>



<p>A premium option for coffee and other hot drinks, the <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/coffee-vending-machines/franke-a600/">Franke A600</a> coffee vending machine is simple to use with maximum flavour extraction. Some of the key features include:</p>



<ul>
<li>An 8” colour touchscreen and programmable drinks menu</li>



<li>A flexible selection that includes iced coffee options</li>



<li>A CleanMaster system designed to minimise the time required for cleaning.</li>
</ul>



<p>This model is also available with a powder system for chai and chocolate drinks.</p>



<p><strong>Ensuring your coffee experience is a stress-free one</strong></p>



<p>As your trusted coffee machine vending supplier, Your Refreshments provides a DIY delivery service to your workplace so you’ve always got a reliable coffee supply.</p>



<p>Is it time to discover your perfect cup of coffee with Your Refreshments’ first-class beans and market-leading coffee vending machines? Speak to our friendly and knowledgeable team on 020 7082 5555 or <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/contact-us/">contact us here</a> to find the ideal coffee vending machine for your workplace.</p>



<p></p>


<strong>From bean to brew: the art of the perfect vending machine coffee</strong>


<p>As workplaces encourage their teams to spend more time in the office, creating a refreshing workspace has become essential. In fast-paced work environments, organisations must implement strategies to maintain productivity and overall employee satisfaction.</p>



<h2><strong>What are the benefits of a refreshing workspace?</strong></h2>



<p>Providing food for your office and creating a collaborative environment will benefit employees and employers. Here are some of the advantages:</p>



<h3><strong>Increased productivity</strong></h3>



<p>Employees can refuel throughout the day with easy access to food and beverages, leading to increased productivity.</p>



<h3><strong>Employee satisfaction</strong></h3>



<p>A refreshing workspace that caters to employees&#8217; needs boosts satisfaction and enhances company culture. Also, a company that prioritises <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/blog/wellness-at-work-promoting-employee-wellbeing-through-thoughtful-refreshment-choices/">employee well-being</a> can attract and retain talent. In a recent poll by Ipsos, <a href="https://www.ipsos.com/en-uk/almost-half-uk-adults-set-cut-intake-animal-products#:~:text=Among%20Brits%2C%2048%25%20of%20British,as%20part%20of%20their%20diet.">48% of British </a><a href="https://www.ipsos.com/en-uk/almost-half-uk-adults-set-cut-intake-animal-products#:~:text=Among%20Brits%2C%2048%25%20of%20British,as%20part%20of%20their%20diet." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adults</a> say they consume a plant-based milk alternative in their diet, yet many companies are not providing this alongside traditional dairy milk.</p>



<h3><strong>Ease for employees</strong></h3>



<p>Providing a variety of food and drink options can eliminate the need to leave the office for food and snacks.</p>



<h3><strong>Team collaboration</strong></h3>



<p>Having designated areas for food and drinks encourages employees to gather during breaks and promotes collaboration.</p>



<h3><strong>How to create a refreshing workspace</strong></h3>



<p>Create a comfortable and collaborative office environment</p>



<p>Your office environment and workspace should encourage comfortable and positive working. Here are some ideas:</p>



<ul>
<li>Breakout space, such as a break room that encourages employees to step away from their desks</li>



<li>Calming decor that isn’t distracting and encourages focus time</li>



<li>In 2004, a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15535806/">study</a> suggested that having indoor plants could have a positive effect on mood and creative task performance!</li>



<li>Supplying nourishing and varied food and drink options for your office.</li>
</ul>



<h3>Food for the office</h3>



<p>Access to food in the workplace saves employees time, whilst giving them the necessary nutrition to power through their workday. A dedicated <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/snacks-drinks/smart-fridge/">food vending machine</a> can provide employees with convenient options, including fresh food, salads, fruit pots, pastries and yoghurts, and <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/snacks-drinks/">drink and snack vending machines</a> can provide healthy snacks, crisps, chocolate and confectionery.</p>



<h3>Tea and coffee machines for the office</h3>



<p>Employees should have access to beverages throughout the day. You can achieve this by introducing a <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/coffee-vending-machines/office-coffee/">tea and coffee machine</a> in your office. A fresh cup of tea or coffee can boost productivity and provide employees with a much-needed energy boost. Tea and coffee machines can cater to individual preferences, offering a range of options such as black tea, green tea, herbal tea, and various types of coffee. This ensures that everyone can find their favourite hot beverage during their workday.</p>



<p>At Your Refreshments, we offer <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/">tea and coffee machines</a> to suit your bespoke requirements. From <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/coffee-vending-machines/table-top/">table-top coffee vending machines</a> to <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/coffee-vending-machines/fresh-milk/">fresh milk coffee machines</a>, we&#8217;ll have the right machine for you.</p>



<p>Drink vending machines</p>



<p>In addition to tea and coffee, a <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/snacks-drinks/cold-drink/">cold drink vending machine</a> can provide a significant benefit to employees who prefer cold beverages. A drink vending machine offers a wide range of options, including flavoured water, soft drinks, and energy drinks. This variety encourages employees to quench their thirst and stay hydrated throughout the day.</p>



<p>Snack vending machines</p>



<p>Who doesn&#8217;t love a snack? Installing a snack vending machine in your workspace can provide easy access to a selection of snacks such as granola bars, confectionery and crisps. This is particularly helpful during busy days when employees don&#8217;t have time to leave the office or when they need a quick energy boost.</p>



<p><strong>Ready to create your refreshing workspace? Call on Your Refreshments</strong></p>



<p>Ensuring that your employees have convenient access to food and beverages can help them stay focused and energised throughout the workday. Investing in a refreshing workspace enhances employee productivity and improves company culture and employee retention rates. So, why wait? Speak to a friendly member of the Your Refreshments team on 020 7082 5555, or email <a href="mailto:sales@yourrefreshments.co.uk">sales@yourrefreshments.co.uk</a> to learn more about how we can support your workplace with refreshing solutions.</p>


<strong>Creating a refreshing workspace with Your Refreshments</strong>

Promoting hydration: the importance of water in the workplace


<p>No matter how large or small your business is, looking after your employees’ mental and physical well-being is important to improve job satisfaction and productivity. Promoting a corporate culture of hydration is a practical and cost-effective way to help employees feel better and perform better.</p>



<p>In this article, we take a look at the importance of water in the workplace, including the benefits of staying hydrated, and top tips for promoting hydration among your employees.</p>



<h2>Why is workplace {hydration} important?</h2>



<p>Before looking at the benefits of hydration in the workplace, it&#8217;s crucial to understand why it matters. <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/blog/wellness-at-work-promoting-employee-wellbeing-through-thoughtful-refreshment-choices/">Nutrition plays a pivotal role in employee well-being</a>, and this includes staying hydrated. Dehydration can lead to a range of issues, including decreased concentration, fatigue and even mood swings. When employees aren’t properly hydrated, their performance and overall job satisfaction can suffer.</p>



<p>Promoting a corporate culture of hydration helps you to nurture a happy, healthy and productive workforce both in the office and at home. This brings long-term benefits for your employees and for your company.</p>



<h3><strong>The</strong><strong> </strong><strong>benefits of staying hydrated</strong></h3>



<p>The importance of water for <a href="https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/hydration">physical and </a><a href="https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/hydration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental</a><a href="https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/hydration"> wellbeing</a> has been known for many years. There are many benefits of staying hydrated, which can help our bodies perform better both at home and while we’re at work.</p>



<h3><a></a><strong>Enhanced cognitive function</strong><strong></strong></h3>



<p>Hydration helps our brains to function better. Employees who are adequately hydrated are more likely to stay alert, concentrate better, and make sound decisions, which can boost problem-solving ability and creativity in the workplace.</p>



<h3><a></a><strong>Increased energy and productivity</strong></h3>



<p>Dehydration can cause fatigue and decreased energy levels, which can be harmful to your business reputation and bottom line. When employees are properly hydrated, they are more likely to be energised, motivated and productive throughout the day.</p>



<h3><a></a><strong>Improved mood</strong></h3>



<p>Dehydration can contribute to mood swings and irritability. By promoting hydration, employers can create a happier and more satisfied workforce. Happy employees are more likely to stay with the company, work better as a team, and enjoy greater job satisfaction.</p>



<h3><a></a><strong>Better physical health</strong></h3>



<p>Proper hydration is not only beneficial for mental well-being but also for physical health. It helps to regulate body temperature, maintain healthy skin, and support various bodily functions. Healthy employees are less likely to take sick days, reducing absenteeism and increasing overall productivity.</p>



<h2>Promoting {hydration} in the workplace</h2>



<p>To create a corporate culture of hydration, it’s important to take proactive steps to encourage employees to drink more water. Here are some strategies to consider implementing in your workplace.</p>



<h3><a></a><strong>Provide accessible water sources</strong></h3>



<p>Ensure that clean and easily accessible water sources such as water coolers and water fountains are available throughout the workplace. The more convenient it is for employees to access fresh drinking water, the easier it is to promote hydration habits.</p>



<h3><a></a><strong>Encourage regular breaks</strong></h3>



<p>Remind your employees to take regular short breaks to hydrate by setting reminders or providing designated break times for employees to refill their water bottles. As well as promoting hydration, these breaks also offer a mental pause, which can enhance productivity.</p>



<h3><a></a><strong>Educate employees about hydration</strong></h3>



<p>Raise awareness about the importance of water through posters, emails and wellness workshops to inform employees about the benefits of staying hydrated and the signs of dehydration.</p>



<h3><a></a><strong>Offer hydration-friendly drinks</strong></h3>



<p>For those who don’t like drinking just water on its own, incorporate a variety of hydration-friendly options in the office kitchen. Stocking up on herbal teas, fruit-infused water and drinks fortified with electrolytes will make hydration more enticing and prevent employees from grabbing too many caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea.</p>



<h2>Create your corporate culture of hydration with easily accessible drinks for {your staff}</h2>



<p>Recognising the importance of water in the workplace is one of the first steps toward fostering a culture that values employee health. By adopting some of the strategies we’ve looked at, you can help your employees to not only feel better but also to perform better. Along with water coolers, <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/our-machines/snacks-drinks/">vending machines</a> and <a href="https://www.yourrefreshments.co.uk/micromarket-smart-fridge/">smart fridges</a> can help you to provide plenty of options to keep your employees happy and hydrated throughout the day. Speak to a friendly member of the Your Refreshments team on 020 7082 5555, or email sales@yourrefreshments.co.uk to learn more about how we can support your workplace hydration strategy.</p>


Welcome to the Your Refreshments Blog!

The rise of wellness beverages: Exploring health-boosting options

From bean to brew: the art of the perfect vending machine coffee

Creating a refreshing workspace with Your Refreshments

Creating a corporate culture of hydration: the importance of water in the workplace

Contact us

Find the perfect vending service for your workplace