Office workers are Billy no-mates and always do two do ‘boring’ things for lunch

Staff described their lunch routines as “tired”, “sluggish” and “stressed” while conventional meal deals cost between £3.50 and £5 at supermarkets and high street retailers such as Boots

Office workers are Billy no-mates who eat “boring” lunches alone on park benches or at their desks.

Two thirds of staff – 64% – nibble their sarnie and crisps on their own, while 54% eat in front of their computer. More than one in 10 (some 11%) said the traditional meal deal – typically a sandwich or wrap with a snack and drink – was dull.

While around the same number (10%) bolt down the mini feast without enjoying it, according to a survey of 2,000 Brit workers. Respondents described their lunch routines as “tired”, “sluggish” and “stressed”, said Wagamama, which conducted the poll.

It found more than half of those quizzed (55%) wished they could go to lunch with colleagues more often. About one in three – 27% – claim they crave more affordable, healthy and nourishing grub.

A quarter would like a “value-for-money” set lunch menu, and 14% want better restaurants to choose from. The Asian-style eatery chain carried out the study to launch its new “real deal” lunch offer – a main and a drink for £12 on weekdays between 11am and 3pm.

Separate research by BBC News found conventional meal deals cost between £3.50 and £5 at supermarkets and high street retailers such as Boots.

A spokeswoman said: “Designed to be quick, fresh and sociable, it’s Wagamama’s answer to the tired meal deal and an invitation to reclaim the lunch break.”

The firm’s chief marketing and commercial officer, Emma Colquhoun, added: “UK workers want more than rushed lunches – they’re craving nourishing, sociable midday breaks.

“That’s why we’ve created Wagamama lunchtime. Guests can enjoy iconic bowls like yaki soba, grilled chicken ramen, protein-packed Thai beef salad, tasty donburi or a comforting pho, paired with a select drink or coffee.

“It’s a fresher and more sociable alternative to a supermarket sandwich at your desk.”

Over half of UK office workers open to returning full-time – on one condition

A new study has found that 51% of UK office workers would be happy to return to the office on a full-time basis – but this will come at a cost to employers.

Over half of the UK’s office workers are willing to return to the office full-time, but they expect their employers to pay a price. A new report shows of that if required to return to the office more frequently, 51% of office workers would renegotiate their compensation package.

The report indicates that men (58%) are more likely than women (43%) to discuss this with their employer. Moreover, a higher percentage of men consider their office working policy ‘fair’ and anticipate increased flexibility if office attendance is required more often.

The study also surveyed 500 business owners and senior leaders, with two thirds expressing they are open to renegotiations with staff to facilitate a return to the office. Furthermore, 47% said they would offer more flexible working hours to help employees avoid peak travel times.