PROMOTED: MICRO-MARKETS SET TO TRANSFORM B&I HOSPITALITY OPERATIONS

Working environments are unlikely to look the same again, simply influenced by the vast majority of the UK currently working from home. And when restrictions do ease return to the office will likely be gradual. So B&I; caterers are already adapting their offering to best support their people now and into the future.

Research by office provision organisation Flexioffices reveals the overwhelming majority of UK office workers (72%) would prefer to work in a hybrid way (from home and from one, or more, other locations). The research also shows around 45% of companies downsizing office space but encouraging employees to work remotely.

It is clear there is still a strong desire to meet with colleagues in the office environment as only 15% opted for ‘home only’ working; but with consumer behaviour irretrievably altered as a result of the pandemic, the office – and the catering provision – will be completely different from what we currently know it to be.

With ‘the new normal’ not just a trend, but a way of life for now, bustling dining areas with people sat in large groups, sharing a table may be a thing to look forward to again in the future. Pre-ordering, paying via apps and food delivery direct to desks will be commonplace; as will any other mechanism that enables social distancing.

Which is where micro-markets come in; quite literally mini food & beverage hubs within an office building that offer a creative and space-saving solution.

Mike Iddon, Partner at Litmus Retail, which specialises in helping workplaces adapt their catering offering to maximise revenue and streamline operations, says: “We’ve seen a 68% uplift in businesses enquiring about micro-markets, seeing them as a way to adapt their offering post-Covid and where possible still drive much-needed profit from their on-site foodservice offer.

“Micro-markets are so much more innovative these days. Custom-designed for premises, businesses can install an outlet into their facility that offers easy-to-eat pre-packaged items, chilled spaces for drinks, smoothies, healthy snacks and deli-items with seating available to give that café feel. The adaptable nature of a micro-market means businesses can easily revise their product range, based on real time sales data.

“Consumers can self-serve, choosing food and beverage items and paying for them via contactless payment tech and enjoy refreshments on a 24/7 basis which is ideal with many offices looking at flexible workplace attendance.”

To find out more about Litmus Retail visit: https://litmuspartnership.co.uk/services/litmus-retail/