Lunch and Learn sessions have become a staple in corporate environments, offering employees opportunities to grow their skills or knowledge during a relaxing break. But how can you ensure attendance and engagement at these events in an era when time is scarce, and attention spans are shorter than ever? The secret isn’t just in the speaker or the topic—it’s in the lunch itself.
Pairing gourmet menus with these sessions can significantly boost participation while fostering a positive learning environment. It’s a simple upgrade that can transform your Lunch and Learns into highly anticipated events. This blog will explore why gourmet food can make all the difference, how it impacts employee engagement, and how HR professionals, event planners, and corporate trainers can effectively implement this strategy.
Why Gourmet Food Elevates Lunch and Learns
1. It Sparks Curiosity and Excitement
A standard sandwich platter might not entice employees to step away from their desks, but the idea of enjoying curated gourmet meals piques curiosity. When people hear about a menu featuring artisanal wraps, fresh sushi, or Mediterranean mezze platters, they’re far more tempted to show up. The food becomes a compelling reason to attend, even for those who might not initially be interested in the session’s topic.
Example: A UK-based tech company optimized attendance at its Lunch and Learns by upgrading its food options. Their participation rates jumped by 30% once gourmet food offerings were introduced.
2. Positive Experiences Create Strong Associations
When employees associate Lunch and Learns with enjoyable experiences, they’re more likely to value these sessions. High-quality meals foster this positive connection. Employees will remember not just the delicious food but also the engaging session, creating an emotional tie to the event and encouraging repeat attendance.
Added Bonus: Research shows that happy and well-fed individuals are more open to collaboration and active participation during meetings and learning sessions.
3. It’s a Gesture of Employee Appreciation
Offering gourmet meals during a learning session sends a powerful message to your employees. It communicates that their time is valued, and adds a touch of luxury to their workday, fostering goodwill and enhancing workplace morale. Small gestures like these show that your company genuinely invests in its workforce’s well-being.
Gourmet Menus and Enhanced Engagement
Food isn’t just a motivator for attendance. It can also impact the level of participation and engagement during a Lunch and Learn session.
1. Boosts Energy and Focus
Processed and sugary foods lead to energy crashes, making employees sluggish and disengaged. Gourmet menus, crafted with balanced, energizing options, keep audiences alert and ready to participate. Consider meals featuring whole grains, lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats—foods known for promoting sustained energy levels.
Example: A major health insurance company in the U.S. introduced plant-based meals into its corporate learning programs. Employees reported feeling more energized and retained more information during sessions than before.
2. Enhances Networking Opportunities
Communal dining, especially with gourmet options, naturally encourages bonding. Sharing unique dining experiences fosters conversation, breaking down barriers and increasing interaction between attendees. The result? A more collaborative and engaged audience during and after the session.
3. Creates a Memorable Sensory Experience
Tying sensory experiences like the aroma of freshly roasted coffee or the taste of a perfectly baked pastry to your session helps make the event truly unforgettable. People remember meals they enjoy, and they’ll associate those experiences with the topic or content discussed.
Implementing Gourmet Menus for Lunch and Learns
Step 1: Determine Your Audience’s Preferences
Take the time to research or survey what kind of meals will most appeal to your attendees. Are they fans of international cuisine? Do they appreciate comfort food with a modern twist? Knowing their preferences will help you curate a menu that excites.
Step 2: Partner with Local or Premium Catering Services
Find a catering service that specializes in gourmet meals and understands your goals. Many caterers offer customizable menus designed to complement event formats like Lunch and Learns.
Step 3: Include Options for Everyone
Ensure your menu accommodates dietary preferences and restrictions, such as vegan, gluten-free, or halal options. Inclusivity is key to making all employees feel appreciated and welcome.
Step 4: Align the Theme with the Session
Tailor the menu to reflect the theme or topic of your session. For example, if you’re hosting a session on sustainability, choose plant-based and locally sourced foods. This thoughtful detail demonstrates that you’ve put effort into every aspect of the event.
Step 5: Promote Your Event Strategically
Highlight the gourmet menu in your promotional materials. Use inviting visuals, clever phrases, or even sneak peeks of the menu to build excitement. A well-placed line like “Join us for an inspiring session over honey-glazed salmon and lemon thyme couscous” can pique curiosity and boost RSVPs.
Elevate Your Corporate Culture with Every Bite
Upgrading your Lunch and Learns with gourmet menus is more than just an investment in good food—it’s an investment in your employees. By offering an elevated dining experience, you’ll not only increase attendance but also create a welcoming atmosphere for learning, networking, and growth.
Chef Gourmet: We Know Good Food
At Chef Gourmet, we use only fresh ingredients to create delicious dishes inspired by culinary traditions from around the world.We are located in Ontario, California, with deliveries available for the Greater Los Angeles Area. Get in touch by phone (1-888-536-5269), email (info@6v2.b95.mytemp.website.com), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
