Beyond The Glitter

It’s not uncommon to hear frustration around workplace “perks.” A new couch in the lounge, a big screen TV in the breakroom, or even the occasional catered lunch might look good on paper but do they really make employees feel valued? For many people, the answer is no. Employees aren’t asking for distractions. They’re asking for real, meaningful support that improves their day-to-day experience at work.

The problem with these perks is that they can feel hollow when bigger concerns aren’t addressed. When companies lean on shiny amenities but avoid the harder work of offering fair pay, growth opportunities, or respect, those extras can come across as more of a smokescreen than a benefit.

Employees see through it. Shiny perks might catch attention, but real solutions show that employers truly understand their needs. After all, not everything that glitters is gold.

That doesn’t mean perks don’t have a place. When done thoughtfully, they can reinforce a culture of care and respect. The difference is in alignment. Perks only matter when they match what employees genuinely care about. And what do people care about most? It comes down to a lot of things but it’s the feeling of being valued for the work they do, having the tools and resources to stay healthy and focused, saving time in the middle of a busy day, and knowing that their contributions are respected. They don’t want forced fun or empty gestures. They want everyday support that makes their work and their lives easier.

This is where the breakroom comes in and why refive isn’t just another perk. The breakroom has the potential to deliver daily value in ways employees actually notice. With refive, employees can find fresh food, snacks, and drinks that fit their preferences and lifestyles.

They can rely on convenient access to meals and coffee without leaving the workplace. They can enjoy options that support energy and wellness rather than creating sugar crashes. And with refive’s rewards, they feel appreciated every time they grab something they love.

This goes back to the question "Are perks just glitter, or can they be something greater?" refive proves it’s the latter. With refive rewards, every purchase pays off; starting with 10 points per dollar and growing as you go. Star Shoppers? They’re earning 13 points for every dollar. That’s a benefit employees can use every single day.

When employees see their needs met in real, meaningful ways, perks stop feeling like glitter and start feeling like care. That’s where the breakroom, done right, becomes more than just a space, it becomes a benefit. While pay sometimes can be tied to outside circumstances beyond an employer’s control, the everyday work experience can always be improved. A well-designed breakroom keeps giving back, fueling employees with energy, convenience, and real value day after day.