Remote. Hybrid. Return-to-office—full time! Whether you work at a Fortune 100 company or are an Ontario government employee, most of us are navigating this journey in 2026. What once started as a conversation about productivity and collaboration has evolved into something more personal. Employees are re‑evaluating not just where they work, but how and why they show up.
That leads to a bigger question: in an era where flexibility and choice are normal, how can the office win people back? One powerful way is by enhancing employee experience through strategic corporate catering. Yes, food!
At first glance, food might seem like a simple part of a workday. However, it plays a much bigger role than people expect. The real value of food isn’t just what’s on the plate. It’s about what happens around the table – the interactions that turn ordinary breaks into shared experiences.
After years of ‘Am I on mute?’, ‘Can you see my screen?’, we’re craving real connections. There’s nothing better than food that naturally pulls people in. In fact, a study showed that sharing a meal actively creates connections. Whether it’s grabbing coffee with a teammate or sharing lunch after a meeting, food creates easy moments to reconnect. These unplanned interactions help rebuild relationships and make the office feel lively again.
What employees eat shapes how they show up at work. A study found that employees who regularly ate unhealthy foods were less productive during the workday. On the flip side, when workplaces make it easy to access nutritious, satisfying meals with corporate catering, employees stay energized, focused, and ready to contribute.
While food choices may seem subtle, inclusive menus, sustainable choices, and dietary accommodations clearly reflect what a company truly values. When employees find options that align with their cultural backgrounds, health needs, or personal values, it reinforces a sense of belonging.
As a corporate food catering partner, Dana Hospitality stays closely tuned to global food trends, translating them into customized menus. Our aim is to ensure everyone feels considered, included, and welcomed at the table.
“What do I bring for lunch?” It’s one of the most tiring questions employees ask themselves. And with full-time, return-to-office, they ask it every single day. Add an early morning commute and a packed schedule, and lunch quickly turns into another draining decision. That’s where on‑site corporate catering can make a difference. When healthy meals are readily available, teams can stay on track, minimize downtime, and power through their workday.
As organizations navigate a full‑time return to the office, workplaces must evolve to be more than just a physical location. Partners like Dana Hospitality can help make that happen. With extensive experience in corporate catering and food services, we design programs that support employee wellness and reflect workplace culture. Reach out to learn more!
Want to learn more about how Dana can make a difference with its food service offerings? Get in touch with our team today!
