Breakroom Upgrades That Boost Morale Across Generations

Breakroom Upgrades That Boost Morale Across All Generations

A great breakroom isn’t just a place to microwave lunch—it’s a space where employees recharge, connect, and feel valued. With Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z all sharing the modern workplace, designing a breakroom that appeals to everyone can be tricky. The key? Offering a mix of comfort, convenience, and customization that caters to different generational preferences. 

At Gateway, we know that small upgrades can make a big difference in employee satisfaction. According to SHRM, highly engaged employees are 21% more productive and 22% more profitable, and an inclusive workplace culture is key to unlocking these results. By tailoring your breakroom to the needs of every generation, you’re not just upgrading a space—you’re investing in a culture that drives business success.  

Why Generational Preferences Matter in Breakroom Design 

co-workers at a coffee break in the office

Each generation has distinct workplace expectations, but they all share a common need: a functional, inviting break space. 

  • Baby Boomers value comfort and practicality—think face-to-face interaction, ergonomic seating, and the availability of traditional layouts. 
  • Gen X appreciates efficiency and multitasking-friendly setups, like personalized areas, quick-access snacks, and tech-friendly spaces. 
  • Millennials enjoy social hubs with collaborative seating, fresh aesthetics, and wellness-focused options. 
  • Gen Z expects modern amenities, tech integration, and sustainability—but also craves spaces that encourage downtime and brain breaks. 

By blending these preferences, you can create a breakroom that boosts morale for everyone.

The Top 6 Breakroom Upgrades Your Whole Team Will Enjoy 

It’s not just about seating and aesthetics; your breakroom should be a space where everyone feels comfortable sitting down, having lunch, making a cup of coffee, or talking over pain points with colleagues. Here’s how Gateway can help you create a breakroom that keeps every generation happy, engaged, and refreshed. 

1. Beverage Stations for All Preferences 

A well-designed beverage station meets diverse tastes while bringing people together: 

  • Classic drip coffee makers for those who appreciate simplicity and reliability 
  • Single-serve machines offering customizable options for personal taste preferences 
  • Smart systems with scheduling features for tech-enhanced convenience 
  • Alternative beverages like herbal teas and infused waters for non-coffee drinkers 

Pro tip: Provide reusable mugs to accommodate both eco-conscious staff and those who prefer convenience.
  

2. Flexible Seating for Every Break Style 

Create spaces that support different ways to recharge: 

  • Spacious communal tables that naturally encourage conversation and connection 
  • Comfortable lounge areas perfect for relaxation and informal meetings 
  • Functional counters with charging ports for quick breaks between tasks 
  • Quiet corners designed for focused alone time or quick mental resets 

3. Snack Options That Delight Everyone 

A thoughtfully stocked snack area satisfies cravings while promoting wellbeing: 

  • Familiar favorites that provide comfort and quick energy boosts 
  • Nutritious alternatives supporting health-conscious choices 
  • Inclusive options addressing common dietary needs and preferences 

Bonus: Rotating selections and seasonal offerings keep the snack station exciting for all. 

4. Tech Integration for Modern Needs 

Today’s workforce expects seamless technology access: 

  • Wireless charging pads built into tables and counters 
  • Convenient power strips with multiple charging options 
  • Digital displays for announcements and shared content 

5. Wellness-Focused Spaces 

Support mental health and relaxation with: 

  • White noise machines or calming background music 
  • Creative outlets like puzzles or coloring books 
  • Reading materials for screen-free breaks 
  • Aromatherapy options to create calming atmospheres 

6. Engaging Touches That Build Community 

Foster connection and fun through: 

  • Nostalgic treats that spark conversation 
  • Game tables for friendly competition 
  • Rotating decor that keeps the space fresh 
  • Community bulletin boards for sharing news 

Create a Breakroom Your Team Loves 

The most effective breakrooms offer choices that empower employees to recharge in ways that work best for them. By incorporating comfortable spaces, quality refreshments, helpful tech, and thoughtful touches, you’ll create an environment where everyone feels valued. 

At Gateway Office Supplies, we specialize in helping businesses design breakrooms that boost morale and productivity. Start with our free Breakroom Audit Checklist to plan upgrades that will make a real difference for your team, then contact Gateway to make your breakroom shine!

Contact Gateway Today for Your Breakroom

Ergonomic Desk Accessories You Might Be Overlooking 

Overlooked Ergonomic Desk Accessories for a Pain-Free Workspace

In today’s fast-paced work environment, many of us spend hours at our desks—often without realizing how much strain we’re putting on our bodies. Poor ergonomics can lead to chronic pain, reduced productivity, and even long-term injuries. While most people know about ergonomic chairs and standing desks, there are several often-overlooked accessories that can make a huge difference in comfort and health. 

At Gateway, we’re committed to helping you create a workspace that supports your well-being. In this guide, we’ll break down the best ergonomic solutions for common pain points—so you can work smarter, not harder. 

Upper Back Pain? Check Your Monitor & Keyboard Setup 

The Problem: Slouching or hunching over your desk strains the upper back and shoulders. 

Gateway Provides: 

  • Monitor Arms – Adjust your screen to eye level to avoid craning your neck. 
  • Split Keyboards – These keyboards encourage a more natural shoulder and arm position. 
  • Document Holders – Keep reference materials at eye level to prevent constant looking down. 

Why It Works: Proper alignment reduces tension in the trapezius and rhomboid muscles. 

Lower Back Pain? Support Your Spine Properly 

The Problem: Sitting for long periods without lumbar support flattens your spine’s natural curve. 

Gateway Provides: 

  • Lumbar Support Cushions – Maintain the inward curve of your lower back by putting these on your office chair. 
  • Adjustable Footrests – Keep your knees at 90° if your feet don’t reach the floor. 
  • Sit-Stand Desk Converters – Alternating positions during the workday will help to relieve pressure on discs. 

Why It Works: Proper spinal alignment prevents slouching and disc compression. 

Wrist Pain? Rethink Your Mouse and Keyboard 

The Problem: Bent wrists while typing or mousing can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. 

Gateway Provides: 

  • Vertical Mice – Uniquely designed mice that reduce forearm twisting and wrist strain.
  • Tented or Split Keyboards – These keyboards will help keep your wrists in a neutral, handshake-like position.
  • Gel Wrist Rests – Resting your wrists on these will prevent pressure on the carpal tunnel during pauses. 

Why It Works: A neutral wrist position minimizes nerve compression and tendon stress. 

Shoulder and Arm Pain? Adjust Your Arm Positioning 

The Problem: Reaching for your mouse or keyboard causes shoulder fatigue. 

Gateway Provides: 

  • Adjustable Keyboard Trays – Trays that help position your keyboard at elbow height. 
  • Monitor Arms (Centered) – Helps you avoid twisting your neck and shoulders. 
  • Padded Armrests – Support your arms without shrugging. 

Why It Works: Keeping arms relaxed prevents overuse of shoulder muscles. 

Leg Pain? Improve Your Lower Body Support 

Office Footrest

The Problem: Poor circulation from sitting too long leads to swelling or stiffness. 

Gateway Provides: 

  • Ergonomic Footrests – Footrests that encourage subtle leg movement. 
  • Anti-Fatigue Mats (for standing desks) – Mats that reduce joint pressure while standing. 
  • Seat Cushions with Cutouts – Relieve pressure on thighs and sciatic nerves with specially designed seat cushions. 

Why It Works: Proper leg positioning promotes blood flow and reduces fatigue. 

Neck Pain? Elevate Your Screen & Documents 

The Problem: Looking down at laptops or papers strains the neck. 

Gateway Provides: 

  • Laptop Stands + External Keyboards – Raise your screen to eye level. 
  • Document Holders (at Monitor Height) – Helps to stop constant head tilting. 
  • Headsets for Calls – Avoid cradling your phone between ear and shoulder. 

Why It Works: Keeping your neck neutral prevents “tech neck” and muscle tension. 

Small Changes, Big Impact 

Many workers overlook these simple yet powerful ergonomic upgrades, assuming they need a whole new desk or chair. But often, small adjustments—like a monitor arm, footrest, or vertical mouse—can make a world of difference in comfort and productivity. At Gateway, we carry a wide range of ergonomic solutions to help you build a workspace that works for you—not against you. 

Ready to upgrade your setup?

Shop Gateway’s Ergonomic Solutions!

Flexible Benching Systems: The Future of Agile Workspaces

Flexible Benching Systems for Agile & Hybrid Workplaces

The modern workplace is evolving rapidly, with hybrid work models becoming the norm. Companies are embracing flexibility, collaboration, and adaptability—and office furniture must keep up. At Gateway, we understand that the right workspace furniture solutions can make all the difference in productivity, efficiency, and especially employee satisfaction. That’s why modular benching systems have emerged as a game-changer for agile teams. 

The Rise of Hybrid Work and the Need for Flexibility 

Hybrid work models blend remote and in-office work, requiring workspaces that can easily transition between both individual focus and team collaboration. Traditional cubicles and fixed desks no longer meet the dynamic needs of much of today’s workforce. Instead, companies are turning to Gateway to procure reconfigurable benching systems that allow seamless space planning and design adjustments based on team sizes, project requirements, and workflow changes. 

Key Benefits of Modular Benching Systems 

  • Adaptability – Unlike static workstations, benching systems can be quickly reconfigured to accommodate different team structures. Need to expand a collaborative zone or create private focus pods? Modular components make it simple. 
  • Space Efficiency – With shared workspaces becoming more common, benching systems maximize floor space without sacrificing comfort. They eliminate wasted gaps between desks, promoting a more open and efficient layout. 
  • Cost-Effective Scaling – As teams grow or shift, adding or rearranging benching components is far more economical than replacing entire workstations. 
  • Enhanced Collaboration – Low-profile partitions and shared surfaces encourage spontaneous interactions while still offering options for privacy when needed. 

Designing for Agile Teams

Every organization has unique needs, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in today’s flexible work environments. Here’s how benching systems can be tailored to support different workstyles: 

For Collaborative Workspaces 

  • Open benching layouts with minimal dividers foster teamwork and idea-sharing. 
  • Integrated power and data ports keep devices charged without cluttering workspaces. 
  • Mobile whiteboards or monitor arms can be added for seamless brainstorming sessions. 

For Focused Work 

  • Adjustable privacy screens or acoustic panels help reduce distractions. 
  • Ergonomic seating and sit-stand options support individual productivity. 
  • Dedicated storage solutions keep personal items organized without sacrificing desk space. 

For Hybrid Schedules 

  • Hot-desking setups allow employees to choose workspaces based on their daily tasks. 
  • Lockers or shared storage units provide a place for hybrid workers to store essentials. 
  • Modular designs mean workspaces can be easily sanitized and reassigned as needed. 

Why Businesses Are Making the Switch 

Companies across industries—from tech startups to corporate offices—are adopting flexible benching systems because they align with the realities of modern work. Employees no longer want to be tethered to a single desk, and employers need solutions that can evolve with changing demands. 

A well-designed benching system isn’t just about furniture; it’s about creating a workspace that empowers employees. When teams have the freedom to configure their environment, they’re more engaged, more productive, and better equipped to innovate. 

Choosing the Right Benching System 

Gateway’s space planning and design experts work closely with you to analyze your workflow, team dynamics, and office layout, ensuring a customized benching system that maximizes efficiency and collaboration. With our expertise, you’ll create a workspace that not only fits your current needs but also adapts seamlessly as your business evolves. We offer a range of modular benching solutions designed to fit diverse workplace needs. When selecting a system, consider: 

  • Mobility – Look for lightweight yet durable components that can be easily moved. 
  • Customization – Options for varying heights, finishes, and tech integrations ensure the system fits your brand and workflow. 
  • Scalability – The best systems grow with your team, allowing for seamless expansions or reconfigurations. 

The Future of Work Is Flexible 

The shift toward hybrid and agile work models isn’t slowing down. Businesses that invest in adaptable workspaces will have a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent. Modular benching systems provide the foundation for a dynamic, collaborative, and future-ready office. Explore Gateway’s selection of flexible benching solutions and discover how the right design can elevate your team’s performance. 

Ready To Transform Your Workspace?