A healthier workplace in 2026: vending refreshments that boost productivity

It’s already February 2026, and our goal of providing vital refreshments to hard-working staff is as strong as ever. A key part of how to create a healthier workplace is recognising the link between nutrition, hydration, and productivity.

At Coinadrink, we know that eating healthier doesn’t just support general wellbeing. It boosts productivity too. As workplaces evolve alongside awareness of healthy eating and healthy workplace culture, our mission is to ensure employees have access to quality refreshments that fuel focus and energy, from quality coffee to hydration stations and healthy work snacks.

The brain food revolution and healthy work snacks

One of the best examples of healthy work snacks are options rich in neuro‑supportive ingredients and the research supports this. Workers who consume diets rich in fruit, vegetables and adequate protein report productivity increases of nearly 20% and a 25% reduction in fatigue, compared to those with poor dietary habits.

Blueberries, for example, are packed with antioxidants that improve communication between brain cells and increase plasticity. Pumpkin seeds are a veritable goldmine for memory and thinking skills. Dark chocolate is an acquired taste, but it has its fans for sure. It contains flavonoids and a touch of natural caffeine to improve blood flow to the brain and boost mood during stressful deadlines. And walnuts have significantly high amounts of DHA, a type of Omega‑3 fatty acid linked to improved cognitive performance in adults.

These are just a handful of foodstuffs that you may find in our fresh food vending and refreshment services, but it’s evident that some options have a real bang for your buck in terms of keeping the brain fit and active during the working day, exactly the kind of healthy work snacks professionals need to stay energised and focused.

Hydration is key

When it comes to beverages, quality hydration is central to how to boost productivity at work. Studies show that hydration isn’t just about quenching thirst. The brain is around 70–85% water, and even mild dehydration can impair cognitive performance, mood, and alertness.

For example, research shows that dehydration can slow reaction times and reduce problem‑solving ability, and employees with better hydration habits report improved mood and less fatigue – all essential for a productive workday.

And it’s only become clearer that regular hydration lends itself to health and wellbeing benefits. Not only is it a pillar of cognitive function and physical stamina, but with electrolyte‑enhanced sparkling waters, pH‑balanced alkaline options and drinks infused with trace minerals, there’s a whole new world of hydration to aid health.

One of the ways we cater to this is with a fully‑managed water service via water taps, water coolers, water boilers, and a whole host of other options depending on the size and scope of your business. That’s a lot of water! All of this is to ensure that no staff member is left without a way to quench their thirst and resume the working day with a lot of energy and clear thinking, which, as research suggests, helps employees stay alert and focused longer.

Quality coffee and workplace productivity

While hydration and healthy snacks are fundamental, the practical benefit of coffee in the workplace shouldn’t be overlooked. A recent poll found that nearly 98% of employers believe good coffee is vital for staff wellbeing, and 82% of employees say access to quality coffee lifts mood and boosts productivity.

Not only does quality coffee support alertness and focus, it also fosters social interaction and workplace morale, with 70% of employees highlighting coffee breaks as the most sociable part of their day. This type of community connection reinforces healthy workplace culture and contributes directly to how to boost productivity at work.

Why not consider a coffee machine as a hot drinks upgrade in your workplace? From small tabletop coffee machines to luxury fresh milk options, the choices are plenty.

Personalised nutrition and dietary inclusivity

At Coinadrink, we don’t believe in a “one‑size‑fits‑all” approach to staff refreshments. In the big ’26, a truly productive, and inclusive, workplace is one that recognises and respects the diverse dietary needs of its team. That’s why we cater to a wide range of preferences, from gluten‑free, vegetarian and vegan to high‑protein or niche options, supporting overall wellbeing and giving employees peace of mind in knowing what they eat fuels their work.

Sustainability that feels good and tastes good

It’s not just the content of what we consume that aids us through the day, but the source of it. Employees today, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, value sustainability, and when a breakroom is stocked with ethically‑sourced snacks and beverages in recyclable packaging, it strengthens healthy workplace culture and morale.

Providing guilt‑free snacking experiences does more than just eat well: it signals that a company cares about values beyond profit. Studies also show that colleagues’ encouragement and visibility of healthy choices help foster a culture where nutritious eating becomes normalised, supporting a healthier workplace overall.

At Coinadrink, we believe that sustainability and high performance go hand in hand. Our 2026 vending machine solutions prioritise brands committed to environmental sustainability, ensuring that every bite is as good for the Earth as it is for the body.

These are just some of the many benefits of opting for healthy refreshments during the working day. From hydration and healthy work snacks to quality coffee and personalised nutrition, all play a role in how to create a healthier workplace, promoting healthy workplace culture, and showing evidence for strategies on how to boost productivity at work.

Whatever workplace refreshment solution you’re interested in for your workplace, talk to Coinadrink to find what you’ve always been missing.

Drop us a message

Chat to us on 01922 640777