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Essential Elements for a Modern Office Kitchen

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In the hustle and bustle of the modern workplace, the office kitchen serves as a sanctuary – a space where colleagues converge, ideas flow, and bonds are forged over a cup of coffee or a quick snack. As the epicentre of workplace culture, the office kitchen plays a pivotal role in fostering productivity, well-being, and connectivity among employees. Elevating this space with essential amenities not only enhances the overall experience but also promotes a healthier and more sustainable work environment. Take a look below at the must-have elements that can transform your office kitchen into a haven of convenience and comfort.

  1. Cereal: Kick-starting the day with a nutritious breakfast sets the tone for productivity. A cereal dispenser stocked with a variety of wholesome options caters to diverse dietary preferences and ensures that employees have a convenient and nourishing option to fuel their mornings.
  2. State-of-the-Art Coffee Machines: Coffee – the elixir of productivity. Investing in high-quality coffee machines ensures that employees can brew their favourite espresso, latte, or cappuccino to kick away the morning grogginess or power through an afternoon slump. Additionally, offering a selection of coffee blends caters to different tastes, from bold and robust to smooth and mellow.
  3. Healthy Snack Alternatives: Gone are the days of mindless munching on sugary treats. A well-stocked selection of healthy snacks such as nuts, dried fruits, granola bars, and rice cakes provides employees with nutritious options to keep energy levels stable throughout the day. These snacks not only satisfy cravings but also contribute to the overall well-being of your employees.
  4. Fresh Fruit Basket: Nature’s bounty in the form of fresh fruits adds a burst of colour and vitality to the office kitchen. From crisp apples to succulent oranges and juicy berries, a fruit basket brimming with seasonal delights offers employees a refreshing and vitamin-rich snack alternative.
  5. Herbal Teas for Wellness: For those seeking a caffeine-free alternative or a soothing beverage to unwind, herbal teas are the perfect choice. Stocking a variety of herbal teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, and green tea, not only promotes relaxation but also supports overall health and hydration.
  6. Biscuits for a Sweet Treat: While promoting healthy options is essential, occasional indulgence is also necessary. A selection of biscuits or cookies adds a touch of sweetness to the office kitchen, perfect for a mid-afternoon treat or to accompany a hot beverage during meetings.
  7. Recycling Facilities: In alignment with eco-conscious practices, integrating recycling facilities within the office kitchen encourages responsible waste management. Clearly labelled bins for paper, plastics, coffee pods and organic waste promote recycling habits among employees, contributing to a more sustainable workplace environment.
  8. Convenience Appliances: Equipping the office kitchen with convenience appliances such as an air fryer and microwave enhances meal options for employees. Whether reheating leftovers or preparing a quick lunch, these appliances offer convenience and versatility, saving time and effort during busy workdays.
  9. Dishwasher for Hassle-Free Cleanup: A dishwasher streamlines the cleanup process, making it effortless for employees to maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen environment. Encouraging the use of reusable dishes and utensils over disposable alternatives reduces waste and promotes sustainability.
  10. Hydration Station with Filtered Water: Staying hydrated is paramount for optimal performance and well-being. A hydration station equipped with a reliable water filtration system ensures access to clean and refreshing water throughout the workday. Encouraging employees to refill their water bottles promotes hydration habits and supports overall health, enhancing focus, concentration, and productivity. Additionally, providing reusable water bottles or glassware reduces reliance on single-use plastic bottles, contributing to a more sustainable workplace environment.

In conclusion, the modern office kitchen is more than just a space for refuelling – it’s a reflection of a workplace culture, values, and employee wellbeing. By incorporating these essential elements, from nutritious snacks to sustainability initiatives, employers can create an inviting and functional space that fosters collaboration, productivity, and overall happiness among their workforce.

Small but Mighty – Revolutionising Facilities Management

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In the realm of facilities management, size doesn’t always determine success. In fact, smaller firms with niche specialties can often provide a level of personalised service and innovation that larger corporations struggle to match. Today, we’re going to explore the unique advantages of partnering with a small facilities management company that boasts a powerful Facilities Management software, expertise in fit-out installations and comprehensive FM compliance management.

Facilities Management Supplier

One of the primary benefits of working with a small facilities management company is the personalised attention clients receive. Unlike larger firms, where you might be just another account number, smaller companies often prioritise building strong relationships with their clients. This means you’re not just another contract to fulfill but a valued customer whose unique needs are understood, addressed and the relationship is nurtured.

Agility and Flexibility

Small facilities management companies are inherently more agile and flexible than their larger counterparts. They can adapt quickly to changing circumstances, whether it’s adjusting schedules, accommodating special requests, or implementing new technologies. This agility ensures that your facility management needs are met promptly and efficiently, without bureaucratic delays or red tape.

Specialised Expertise

While larger firms may offer a broad range of services, small facilities management companies often specialise in specific areas, allowing them to become experts in their field. In the case of our featured company, their unique selling proposition lies in their Facilities Management software, fit-out installation capabilities, and site compliance management expertise. This specialisation means you’re benefiting from the latest advancements and best practices in those particular areas, resulting in superior service and outcomes.

Fit-Out and Maintenance

Beyond the initial fit-out installation, the commitment to client solutions continues with ongoing maintenance and compliance. Here’s where their unique value proposition truly shines. Once the fit-out is complete, many facilities face the challenge of maintaining compliance with various regulations and standards, especially concerning critical elements like boilers, warehouse doors, lifts, and more.

This is where your FM partner steps in with their comprehensive approach to maintenance and compliance management should you require this. They understand that ensuring the continued functionality and safety of these key components is paramount for the smooth operation of your facility. Their team is well-versed in the intricacies of regulatory requirements and industry standards, ensuring that your facility remains in compliance at all times.

By entrusting your maintenance and compliance needs to our FM partner, you can rest assured that critical systems are regularly inspected, serviced, and documented after a fit-out. This proactive approach not only minimises the risk of downtime and costly repairs but also demonstrates a commitment to the safety and well-being of your staff and visitors.

Integrated Solutions

What sets the small facilities management company apart is their ability to provide integrated solutions throughout the entire lifecycle of your facility. From initial fit-out installations to ongoing site compliance management, they have you covered every step of the way. Their comprehensive Facilities Management software serves as a central hub for managing all aspects of your facility, streamlining processes, and ensuring seamless communication between stakeholders.

Cost-Effectiveness

Contrary to common misconceptions, partnering with a small facilities management company can often be more cost-effective than opting for a larger firm. Without the overheads associated with big corporate structures, small companies can offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Moreover, their efficiency and expertise can help optimize operations and minimise unnecessary expenses over time, delivering long-term value for your investment.

Extension to the Team

By outsourcing your facility management needs, you’re not just hiring a service provider – you’re gaining access to a pool of expertise and resources that may not be available in-house. The third party provider can become the ‘extenstion of the team’ or the ‘main go-to team’ which could lead to significant cost savings.

Firstly, relying on a third-party FM provider means you can access skills and knowledge that you may not have within your own team. Whether it’s specialised technical expertise, regulatory compliance know-how, or innovative solutions, your FM partner can fill in the gaps and provide invaluable support where needed. This means you don’t have to invest in hiring additional staff or training existing employees, saving both time and money.

Furthermore, having a smaller in-house team supplemented by an outsourced FM partner can lead to more efficient resource allocation. Instead of maintaining a large team to cover all possible scenarios, you can streamline your internal operations and focus on core business activities. Knowing that your FM partner is just a phone call away provides peace of mind, allowing you to scale resources up or down as needed without the overheads associated with maintaining a large in-house team.

In essence, the cost-effectiveness of partnering with a small facilities management company extends beyond the immediate financial savings. It’s about leveraging external expertise and resources to enhance your operational efficiency, minimise risks and drive overall business performance. By viewing your FM partner as an extension of your team, you’re not just reducing costs – you’re unlocking new possibilities for growth and success.

Commitment to Excellence

Finally, what truly sets a small facilities management company apart is their unwavering commitment to excellence. They take pride in their work and are dedicated to exceeding client expectations at every turn. Whether it’s ensuring your facility is running smoothly, maintaining compliance with regulations, or leveraging technology to drive innovation, they go above and beyond to deliver results that speak for themselves.

In conclusion, while big names may dominate the facilities management industry, there’s a compelling case to be made for the power of small. By partnering with a specialised firm like the one we’ve discussed, you’re not just getting a service provider – you’re gaining a strategic partner invested in your success. With personalised attention, specialised expertise, integrated solutions, and a commitment to excellence, the small facilities management company is proving that when it comes to managing your facility, size isn’t everything – it’s the quality of service that truly matters.

Three essentials every new business owner will need

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The moment your new business finally gets up and running can feel incredibly exciting, particularly if you have lots of plans that you’re eager to put into action. Of course, having big aspirations for a new company can also mean encountering hurdles, particularly in your first year of navigating the business landscape.

If you’re in the process of starting up a new business, you’ll be keen to ensure a smooth transition navigating the business landscape. Want to ensure that the launch of your new business goes as smoothly as possible? If the answer is yes, read on for three essential components that are key to a successful start-up venture.

 

An inspiring, functional office space

It can be hard to get into that motivational mindset if your office isn’t inspiring or equipped to promote progression, but by investing in your workspace, you can make it a place that both you and your colleagues will love to be in. Use warm, vibrant colours in collaborative spaces to help your employees get their creative juices flowing, and subtle neutrals in your personal office space to promote a sense of calm and allow for mental clarity. Incorporating office plants into your space is also a great way to add some pops of colour in addition to their health benefits.

When you start your renovations, it’s worth future-proofing your office space for growth. I’ts more more cost-effective to get everything done with one installation charge and this also ensures that the range you chose won’t be discontinued in the future  and ensure everything matches and ties in nicely.

Of course, your office needs to be functional, too. New business owners should make sure they have ample storage space to securely file important documents, as well as plenty of room for meetings and breakout spaces, and don’t forget to include extras like charging points, hot water taps and vending machines. You’ll also want to ensure that you also have the latest technology in place on employee laptops, including video call software like MS Teams, Zoom or Google Meet.

A professional website

Your website is essentially the face of your business, and first impressions count. It’s important to make sure that your website looks professional, and is well-developed with functionality in mind. Ensure contact forms are built-in and look to connect any leads straight into your chosen CRM.

Your website is also the ideal place to showcase team talent. This is key for new business leaders looking to make their mark and gain the trust of potential clients, investors and future employees.

To boost your website’s performance, you’ll want to think about your on-page content and ensure this is SEO-enhanced. To do this, you can reach out to a local marketing agency whose creative writing team will be on hand to help ensure your site has the right keywords built-in. Similarly, you may want to devote some time to developing your online presence in other areas, such as  social media to encourage more traffic to your site.

A determined team

There’s no business without people, and while you’ve come a long way in getting your company set up, it’ll be hard to move forward and truly progress without the support of a committed team behind you, particularly if you’re looking to expand quickly.

It can take some time to get the right group of people together, and when you’re first starting out, it can be hard to know exactly who your company needs, and what gaps they need to fill. For this reason, any business start-up should focus on hiring professionals who are motivated and determined to create something that will last – people who see and understand the company vision, and are committed to undertaking the hard work needed to get there.

A successful future in business

Those who have made it far enough to start their own business are likely to already have a good idea of exactly what they need to take their company to the next level. Plus, the essentials you’ll need will usually become clearer as you navigate your first year or so of business, identifying any gaps and areas for improvement along the way.

With the help of a functional space, industry-standard equipment, a little creative marketing and a motivated team, you have plenty to get you set up and working towards a successful future in business.

Office Essentials – Top 10 Must Have’s for a Happy Office Life

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Welcome to the heart of the modern workplace, where productivity meets pleasure! In the hustle and bustle of office life, there are certain items that elevate our working day from mundane to marvellous. Join us on a whimsical journey as we explore the top 10 items in the office that we simply can’t live without!

Office Essentials

1. Team Spirit

First and foremost, our list wouldn’t be complete without the intangible but essential element – team spirit! The camaraderie, shared laughter, and collaborative energy of a united team are the true heart and soul of the office. It’s the secret ingredient that turns coworkers into friends and transforms the daily grind into a shared adventure.

2. Biscuit Bonanza

What’s a coffee break without some biscuits to dunk? Biscuits are the unsung heroes of office snacks – versatile, delicious, and perfect companions for tea or coffee. Whether you’re a classic digestive dunker or an adventurous chocolate chip explorer, biscuits make every break a delightful experience.

3. Stationery Staples

Now, let’s shift gears from edible delights to the practical essentials – stationery! The satisfying click of a pen, the crisp pages of a notebook, and the rainbow of sticky notes – these are the tools that transform a chaotic desk into an organized command centre. Stationery items bring colour, creativity, and a touch of personal flair to our workspaces.

4 . Post-it Notes – The Brain’s BFF

Speaking of stationery, let’s give a special nod to sticky notes – the brain’s best friend. These little squares of magic turn forgotten tasks into visible reminders, colour-code chaos into order, and transform any surface into an impromptu canvas for doodles and ideas. Where would we be without them?

 

5. The Mighty Coffee Machine

Let’s kick off our list with the undisputed champion of office survival – the coffee machine! It’s not just a device; it’s a lifesaver. This magical contraption transforms groggy Monday mornings into energetic masterpieces. With every rich, aromatic cup, the coffee machine becomes the a daily comfort, saving us from the clutches of sleepiness one sip at a time.

 

6. Snack Cupboard Sanctuary

Have you seen the snack offerings in the workplace these days?  The snack cupboard is the sacred space where office snacks go to shine bright! Whether you’re craving something salty, sweet, or a bit of both, the snack cupboard has your back. There to satisify our grazing needs and to help turn frowns into smiles with every crunch. Choice ranges from biscuits to popcorn and Haribo’s to a healthy fruit basket.

 

7. The Elixir of Life – Coffee

Yes, we’ve already mentioned the coffee machine, but let’s give a special shout-out to the true elixir of life – coffee itself! From cappuccinos to lattes, espressos to cold brews, coffee is the fuel that powers our brainstorming sessions and fuels our creativity. It’s not just a beverage; it’s a warm hug in a mug that brings colleagues together over shared caffeine-induced enthusiasm.

 

8. Personalised Desk Decor

An often-overlooked element in the office realm is personalized desk decor. Whether it’s a quirky desk toy, a motivational quote, or a collection of succulents, these little touches turn a generic workspace into a personal sanctuary. Desk decor adds character, inspiration, and a touch of home to our daily grind.

 

9. The Comfortable Chair

Amidst the chaos of office life, one constant remains – the trusty, comfortable chair. It’s not just a seat; it’s a haven where ideas are born, problems are solved, and power naps are taken (shhh, we won’t tell the boss). A good chair is the unsung hero of ergonomic bliss, supporting us through the highs and lows of the workday.

10. Vending Machine Marvels

Next up, we have the treasure trove of snacks and delights – the vending machine! When that mid-afternoon hunger pang strikes, there’s nothing like the satisfying hum of the vending machine offering an array of treats. From sweet to savoury, this magical box of wonders fuels our creativity and keeps us going through the toughest of deadlines.

 

And there you have it, the top 10 items in the office that make our working day not just bearable but downright enjoyable! From the aromatic embrace of the coffee machine to the comforting presence of a personalized desk, each item plays a unique role in shaping our office experience. So, here’s to the unsung heroes of the workplace – may they continue to brighten our days and make the office a place we genuinely can’t live without!

Four things your office space needs

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Every professional needs a workspace conducive to productivity. Whether you conduct your business in-office or at home, each little detail of your space is important – from your choice of lighting to your storage facilities and even the style of your furniture. However, there are a few key supplies, above all others, that you should never be without. Here are the four crucial things you should consider implementing for a more efficient, productive office space.

Good storage facilities

A functioning office space will always house a lot of paperwork, and while they’re necessary for business, files that aren’t properly organised and stored can be a source of havoc in the work environment. Working at a cluttered desk can not only impact workers’ productivity, but it might also have a detrimental effect on mental health by exacerbating any feelings of stress or anxiety.

In contrast, focusing on work tasks becomes much easier when files are stored neatly out of sight whenever they’re not being used. In fact, it can be that much easier to find the documents that you need as and when you need them, if they’re properly stored in an accessible storage unit.

Good storage is more than just a messy stack of papers, or an overfilled filing cabinet. By opting for a built-in storage solution, you can optimise the space that you have available to you, keep the mountains of paperwork out of the way, and create a sleek, modern workspace that’s conducive to productivity.

It’s also good practice to decide how long you wish to retain your paperwork for and then utilise a reputable Archiving provider who will have purpose-built storage facilities, climate controlled and with 24/7 security in place to look after your data and paperwork.  These can still be accessed and either returned in the original format or scanned back to you, the choice is yours.

Ergonomic furniture

Most people will find themselves spending the vast majority of their workdays seated at their desks – particularly those who work in-office, who may not have the same amount of daily flexibility as a remote worker.

Unfortunately, spending hours in a seated position like this isn’t great for the body. So, it’s important to invest in some quality ergonomic furniture that will help to relieve the stress on your muscles and joints.

Ergonomic chairs are built to support your body, in order to prevent injury and keep you comfortable throughout the workday. Usually they’ll have adjustable seats, backs and armrests, and will be adaptable to suit your individual needs and frame. That means no unwanted aches and pains, and no need to reposition yourself throughout the day – ultimately making for a much more constructive work environment.

 

A space to take calls

Taking calls is part and parcel of working in an office, and often, time spent speaking with important clients will be prioritised above all other office tasks.

So, when it comes to these crucial communications, you’re going to need to have a comfortable, quiet space to conduct business away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the office. In a shared workspace, this will mean having separate areas that employees can retreat to for some privacy, while in a home office, it may be that there is a designated call-taking area that others in the household don’t frequent.

You’ll want to make sure that this space is well-equipped with a good answering system, and that the telephone is of clear sound quality for a stress-free call handling experience.

Smart decor

When it comes to decorating your office, you’re going to want to strike the perfect balance between creativity and functionality. This means opting for designs that won’t distract from work, but will be engaging enough to inspire.

Consider modern designs in neutral colours for a clean, contemporary space. Don’t forget, an attractive office not only makes for a pleasant place to work – it can also increase employee motivation and productivity, and will provide a professional space from which to host customers, clients and other visitors.

Choose with wellbeing in mind

Most of us spend a whole lot of our time in the office – so, it’s crucial to make sure the space is one we (and our colleagues) love to be in. No matter which of these ideas you choose to implement, it’s important that you make choices with your physical and mental wellbeing in mind. After all, healthy and happy people make for the most high-achieving and rewarding workforce.

 

Top tips for staying cool in the office

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Summer has officially started and the MET office has already announced some scorching hot days ahead this June. So why not beat the heat and be prepared with these top tips to help you stay cool in the office…

 

Keep the blinds down

It may sound obvious but lower the blinds in the office before the sun rises as the piercing sun will only heat up the office. Having the sunlight shining through the office all day will cause what is known as the ‘Greenhouse Effect’.

 

Workwear

Wardrobe choices are essential when it’s a hot summer’s day. Whilst some outfit choices may be restricted due to the office dress code, carefully consider what you’re going to wear and opt for clothes which are made of a looser material e.g. cotton to help you stay comfortable throughout the day as well as lighter colours which will reflect the suns radiation. Thick and heavy clothes such as woolly skirts or fully lined suits are a definite no-no!

 

Stay hydrated

This sounds like an obvious one, but many people don’t realise that you can quickly dehydrate even if you’re just sitting at a desk all day. It’s essential to drink plenty of water, approximately around 2 litres minimum a day. Also, keep your water in the fridge or freezer so that it stays nice and cool for when you come to drink it.

 

Should I drink hot drinks?

Yes! It’s a common myth that drinking caffeine dehydrates you, so don’t worry, you can still enjoy that morning cup of tea or coffee to help get your day started.

 

Apply water on your wrists

You may look slightly bonkers carrying out this tip, but if you’re in the office kitchen or bathroom, it’s most certainly worth it. Run cool water over your wrists every couple of hours for approximately 5 seconds. This will help cool down the main veins running through them as well as your pulse points and will ultimately help to lower your blood flow temperature. Try it!

 

Invest in a personal fan

One of the best investments you’ll make this year…we promise! Having your own personal fan enables you to have a constant fresh breeze without having to share with other employees and all cramp into one corner where there’s air con in the office. Luckily, there is a huge range of fans available at great prices including personal clip-on fans and desktop fans; both which are ideal for the office and for travelling.

 

To get yourself and the office ready for those long, hot summer days ahead, if you have an account why not head over to the Quills website where we have a huge supply of fans including office fans, personal clip-on fans, floor standing fans, air con units and much more. We also have great prices available and bulk offer discounts. Simply click here to find out more or get in touch today to see where you can start saving!