Commentary

How to give customer breakrooms some holiday cheer

Convenience services operators are in a great position to make the holidays merrier. Here are some creative suggestions.

Image provided by iStock.

December 12, 2022 by Amanda Puppo — CEO, MarketReach Inc.

The holidays are almost here. The ongoing pandemic may put a damper on holiday cheer, but keeping the spirit alive is essential. The convenience services industry can help in that department in some unexpected ways. Creativity and innovation will keep us coming together, even while we may be celebrating apart. Here are some suggestions.

Donations

The Holiday Giving Machine allows people to "buy" donations for holiday gifts. Image provided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Believe it or not, vending machines can make donations to charities simple. While it sounds optimistic, innovators have proved it is possible.

The Light The World Campaign proved what one vending machine can accomplish. The Holiday Giving Vending Machine is like any other, except instead of buying a box of crackers, you can "buy" donations. With locations in London, Manila, New York City, Salt Lake City and Denver, this machine is spreading glee globally.

Donations can range from just $2 to $320, and as they say, no donation is too small. The offers also vary. One can buy a soccer ball for underprivileged children for $20. Another can purchase 200 meals for a homeless person for $50. A person can also buy a couple of chickens for $25.

These possibilities are endless and unique for consumers. The donations are sent to organizations like UNICEF, WaterAid and International Medical Corps.

This is just one example of how a vending machine can do so much more than dispense snacks. A great way to get your company involved in a similar program is to donate a vending machine. This not only promotes merriness during a time when we certainly need it, but also helps your brand. Corporate social responsibility adds to your company's brand image, improves customer loyalty and motivates others to do the same.

Pop-up vending

It is safe to say that times are tough economically. Many companies are struggling, so it may be a daunting task to approach annual winter festivities. However, a great way to tackle possible budget constraints may be to use pop-up vending.

Intelligent Dispensing Solutions creates customized vending machines tailored to different shopping experiences with a variety of items. These machines are like miniature stores wrapped up in a machine. For example, one might find themselves pressing a button for a gift, fragrance, jewelry or even a holiday knickknack.

It may not be feasible to increase staff size both financially and safely due to the pandemic. A company might be concerned with a pop-up shop that could be closed during another shut-down (and it turns out the company has delayed launch for this reason).

These problems are especially relevant now and leave a lot to be considered. On the bright side, pop-up vending machines can easily solve these issues, as there is no need to increase employees or retail space. Furthermore, it is also a safe and contactless way to serve the needs of customers and companies alike.

This innovation makes for a fun and unique contactless experience that may ease holiday stress and increase spirits for everyone.

Seasonal products in the office

Due to the increased remote workforce, particularly in the white collar office space, some businesses are being forced to requalify prospect demographics of breakroom service buyers. During this holiday season, we can recognize our blue-collar workers as our primary customers. Making sure merriment reaches our manufacturing companies through vending can be done with just a little bit of forethought.

Upgrading an office space with seasonal treats is one sure way to lift employee spirits. For example, a vending machine may feature candy canes, or maybe some fresh apple cider.

Micro markets might want to introduce some fresh slices of pumpkin pie or some traditional latkes.

Maybe a coffee bar simply adds some hot cocoa and marshmallows. These seasonal switches are small, yet effective.

Comfort, nostalgia and holiday joy can be added to the workplace with ease. This will increase employee motivation, and thus productivity. Not only can these items inclusively bring in the warmth of holiday feelings, but it can also surely make what might be a tough season for many just a bit brighter.

Working in the convenience services industry during the pandemic has surely come with its challenges. However, with these simple steps, increasing the quality of the environment during the holidays is achievable.