McVitie’s and Martine McCutcheon call for the return of the tea break

Biscuit breaks are back! McVitie’s has launched a modern spin on the classic tea trolley, which comes equipped with a PA system and a countdown clock to ensure breaks are never missed again.

Tea breaks are a beloved tradition for many British workers, with almost all employed adults (93%) considering them an essential part of the working day. However, a recent study has found that almost half of British workers (43%) take less than 10 minutes a day for tea breaks, with 15% claiming they are “not allowed” to take such breaks. Outside of lunchtime, seven in ten take less than 15 minutes a day to step away from their job duties.

Many blame this on their workload (47%), too many meetings (25%), and a constant stream of emails (23%).  More than a third (36%) feel that their employers do not do enough to encourage them to take breaks, while 74% believe that having a tea break will allow them to get to know their colleagues better.

McVitie’s is leading the charge to bring back the tradition of biscuit breaks, supporting the 72% of UK employees who would like to see the implementation of a daily 15-minute tea break in their place of work.

Martine McCutcheon said: “As someone who loves her tea and biscuit breaks, I’m so excited to help McVitie’s with their mission of reinstating this treasured tradition for the hard-working people of Britain. I’ve had my fair share of long workdays throughout my career and know how important it is to make sure you take the time for a break. Whether you fancy a cuppa and a biccy for some time to yourself or a quick catch up with colleagues – these moments can turn around a stressful day. So, let’s bring back the biscuit break!” 

Aslı Özen Turhan, spokesperson for McVitie’s UK & Ireland, said: “It is so important we find the time to take breaks during the working day. Just a short 15-minute break can improve wellbeing and connections with colleagues, which we witnessed among the McVitie’s workers who recently took part in trialling a daily tea and biscuit break.”

The McVitie’s trolley, stocked with a selection of biscuits, will embark on a tour of the UK. Workers will be able to win a visit to their office next month accompanied by the Love Actually and EastEnders star Martine McCutcheon, who is leading the campaign to bring back workplace breaks.