Purchasing guide: How to choose the right catering furniture from Manutan

Within companies, the dining and/or break room has a special place: It’s a space for informal exchange where all employees come together, regardless of their hierarchical level or their job. Manutan offers a wide range of catering furniture so that each company can furnish this area to suit its image. In this guide, you will learn how to identify which features will best suit your needs among the tables and chairs in our catalogue. You will also discover our tips on how to set up your company dining room and its importance for employees.

How to choose a dining table

In companies, the lunch break is a time for employees to enjoy a moment of relaxation after their morning’s work. They can chat and bond with their colleagues, provided that the size and shape of the dining tables make interaction easy. When choosing a dining table, elements such as budget and flexibility requirements, as well as the eco-friendliness of the products and equipment should also be considered.

How to choose the right shape

Standard dining tables are large enough to accommodate groups of people sitting down. Each shape has a purpose:

• The I-shape facilitates accessibility and circulation in the room;
• The T-shape is a stylish option;
• The round or oval table promotes social interaction.

In addition to these standard shapes, the high table is a solution for small spaces and quick meals. It can be accompanied by high chairs or stools. A bar table can also be placed in the reception area next to the coffee machine or outside near the smoking area. The Manutan catalogue includes several models of high tables: Circular or rectangular, with a pedestal or rectangular base, with one or two legs, with one or two tops, etc.

Lastly, the folding table offers flexibility, as it can be easily stored. It is made of a lightweight material to make it easy to move around. Most folding tables are treated to resist UV, heat, and cigarette burns. They can therefore be set up outside for outdoor lunches when the weather is nice.

 A material suitable for dining areas

A dining table should be resistant to liquids, from spilled drinks to the use of disinfectants for cleaning. Most of the models in the Manutan range feature laminated wood table tops. This wood composite material is more compact than melamine, which is used for office furniture and can swell if it comes into contact with water too often.

Wood composite also guarantees good scratch and impact resistance. Company dining tables should have these features, as they need to be cleaned between each service.

Which base to choose

The four-legged table is stable, versatile and has a classic design. The folding table, on the other hand, saves space. Tables with a central leg offer greater comfort for the people sitting down, as the legs do not get in the way. It also makes it easier to clean the floor. In terms of materials, the legs are often made of metal, which guarantees excellent stability and durability.

Criteria for choosing dining chairs

Dining chairs are available in a wide range of designs, from simple and functional to more sophisticated. Above all, they must be resistant. The comfort they provide is also important, even when employees do not use them for long periods, for the best dining experience. Lastly, the chosen model(s) should be in line with the catering furniture budget.

First criterion: The materials

The main materials used in the manufacture of chairs are plastic and metal. With its metal base, grip pads and plastic seat, the bistro chair is a classic, versatile, and comfortable model. This type of chair is lightweight and easy to clean, and up to 10 can be stacked together. In addition, the chair trolley makes it easier to move stacks of chairs.

There are also wooden models, which are heavier but more elegant. This type of chair is suitable for a dining room that receives the public or simply for a restaurant. A good compromise between the two is a chair with a steel frame and a wooden seat.

Finally, some models are suitable for an outdoor environment, for example, to set up a terrace. The chairs are made of plastic, treated wood or corrosion-resistant metal.

Second criterion: The type of base and the shape

To save space, it may be better to choose a model without armrests. A high-enough backrest provides better seating comfort and makes it possible to relax. There are several types of bases:

• U
• I
• V
• X
• Cantilever

The choice depends on preference as well as the type of table that the chairs will accompany. The possibility of stacking chairs should also be considered, if necessary.

Third criterion: A price within budget

As with all equipment purchases, the selection of chairs should fit into the company’s overall budget. A balance therefore needs to be found between quality (and therefore durability), comfort and price. The quality depends on the materials used and is reflected in the warranty period.

Our tips for designing a dining or break room

What should be considered when choosing catering furniture and designing a dining room?

Creating an atmosphere

Designing a space is also about giving it an identity and creating an atmosphere through its decor. For example, using materials such as wood and adding plants can create a natural feel. Colours such as orange give a dynamic style.

As well as the main colours and materials, consider the lighting. Neon and white light can increase employee fatigue. For a more intimate atmosphere, choose hanging lamps with shades and bulbs with warmer tones.

Keep the practicality aspect in mind

The room must allow for smooth circulation. There must therefore be enough space between the pieces of catering furniture. People with reduced mobility should also be able to move around without difficulty.

A dining room must include several essential pieces of equipment, such as recycling bins for waste disposal. The Manutan catalogue offers a wide range of stylish and functional products to match the chosen style and atmosphere.

If the premises do not include catering facilities, the break room should also feature a refrigerator, a water station, a sink, a microwave and possibly an oven for food preparation. The room should be in a location that is easily accessible to all employees from their workstations.

Consider the teams’ opinions

Aside from the useful information it provides, asking employees for their opinion is a way of demonstrating a spirit of inclusivity as well as a desire to improve and to take care of the teams.

Here are some examples of questions to ask:

• Do they only want to eat lunch while seated or would they also like to have standing tables?
• Would they like to have a relaxation area with armchairs?
• Would they like to have access to games?
• Would it be useful to install vending machines for snacks and drinks?

To go further than a simple questionnaire, consider organising a discussion session on the subject to make it an opportunity to create together.

Multi-purpose rooms

The company dining room often has several functions. Apart from lunches, it hosts celebratory events to mark the end of the year or a company achievement, for example. For these occasions, the room should be made warmer and more inviting. If necessary, a dance floor can be set up.

Solutions can be found to prepare for this type of ad hoc layout:

• The folding chairs and tables mentioned above;
• Stackable, comfortable, and practical chairs;
• Benches that are easy to stack and store.

Why are relaxation areas essential in companies?

In many cultures, sharing a meal is all about coming together and experiencing community. Company dining areas are therefore spaces for social cohesion. They strengthen the bonds between employees and reinforce their sense of belonging.

Reflecting the company’s culture

The choice of professional catering furniture has an impact on the company’s image. On the one hand, the layout of this space dedicated to work-adjacent activities reflects the company’s culture through the aesthetic choices made.

On the other hand, it makes it possible to enhance the CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) policy by opting for eco-friendly catering furniture. Of the dining tables featured in the Manutan catalogue, nearly 30% are manufactured in the European Union, and more than 25% are eco-friendly (i.e. made from recycled materials, packaged in recycled or recyclable packaging, etc.).

Social spaces in the era of remote working

The break and/or dining room has always held a special place within companies. It’s where employees meet to talk, for example, at the coffee machine.

In a context where teams are increasingly opting to work remotely, these social spaces are essential for social cohesion.

A means of improving well-being at work

This opportunity to spend time with colleagues is also a way of improving the well-being of employees. A break room should promote quality of life at work (QWL) and help to reduce stress.

Improving QWL has two advantages. It decreases occupational stress and therefore reduces the number of absences as well as staff turnover. The performance of employees who feel good at work is boosted, as is their creativity.

Lastly, a pleasant space is an important factor for the employer brand, which helps to retain talent.

Discover our “Catering” product category.