Walk into many Global Capability Centres in India today and the first impression is no longer a security desk or a corporate display. In over 1500 GCCs across the country, dining areas are being redesigned as cultural hubs. As multinational companies expand their India centres from back office roles to product engineering, research and development, and global leadership, workplace expectations have shifted. With the sector projected to employ more than 2.5 million people by 2030, companies are competing to offer better employee experiences, and food is emerging as a key differentiator.
At the Bengaluru office of 7-Eleven, employees are welcomed by a Slurpee machine instead of a reception desk. The familiar frozen drink reflects the brand’s global identity. “At 7-Eleven GSC, we see dining as a core part of the employee experience, not just a facility. When people are spending long hours solving complex problems, access to good food matters. Our menus reflect the diversity of our teams across demographics and age groups,” said Chetana Parashar, Head of HR, 7-Eleven GSC. The cafeteria includes a stage, vinyl records, neon lighting, and a cafe style layout. Employees receive a ₹500 meal card top up, and over 85% rate the food and beverage offerings positively.
Other GCCs are taking similar steps. Availity India has created cafe style lounges with soft seating and indoor plants, aligned with its sustainability focus. The centre holds a Great Place to Work certification with a 95% Trust Index as of 2024. Bread Financial India offers labelled healthy meals and supports flexible work, with employees attending office 1 to 2 days a week. Broadridge India features a Chat Darbaar counter serving local chaat alongside recreation areas. Wayfair operates from a 95000 sq. ft. office at Bagmane Capital in Bengaluru, where dining areas connect with recreation zones. lululemon launched its Bengaluru tech hub in 2021, its first outside North America, offering wellness allowances and labelled nutritious meals.
“Across GCCs today, workplace food has become a key employee touchpoint where people pause, recharge and connect,” said Ashwani Vohra, Managing Director, Elior India. Leaders say compensation may attract talent, but culture drives retention. As Gen Z professionals shape hiring priorities around AI, data and digital transformation, dining spaces are evolving from basic cafeterias into cultural infrastructure that strengthens engagement, productivity, and connection.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
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