From large corporations to small businesses, employers are increasingly investing in programs that support their employees’ physical and mental well-being. Why? Because healthier employees are not only more productive and engaged, but they also help reduce long-term healthcare costs and improve workplace morale. In today’s workplace, wellness is no longer an afterthought—it’s a priority.
As wellness programs evolve, so does the need for practical, effective ways to support these initiatives. That’s where PICO (People in Charge Of) markets come in. These self-service micro markets offer 24/7 access to snacks and beverages, and when thoughtfully curated, they can become powerful tools for promoting healthy eating in the workplace.
Below, we’ll explore how PICO markets support corporate wellness goals, ways to select the right mix of healthy products, strategies to engage employees in mindful and intentional eating, and how technology can play a role in shaping a healthier workplace culture.
The Connection Between PICO Markets and Corporate Wellness
PICO markets are a natural fit for modern wellness programs. Unlike traditional vending machines that often stock basic sugary or processed items, PICO markets can be customized to offer nutritious, fresh, and appealing options that align with wellness initiatives.
These markets serve as an on-site healthy food solution, offering convenience without sacrificing quality. Whether employees are working long shifts, skipping lunch meetings, or simply looking for a quick pick-me-up, PICO markets provide easy access to smarter choices. This availability encourages healthier habits and makes wellness part of the everyday work experience.
By partnering with a provider like Bernick’s, businesses can stock their PICO markets with items tailored to wellness priorities, making the connection between convenience and health stronger than ever.
Choosing Healthy Snack Options for PICO Markets
The effectiveness of a wellness-oriented PICO market hinges on what’s inside it. Offering the right mix of nutritious snacks and drinks can make a big impact on how employees fuel their day.
Popular healthy options include:
- Fresh fruit and vegetables (like pre-sliced apples, baby carrots, or mixed fruit cups)
- Whole grain snacks (granola bars, popcorn, or oatmeal cups)
- Protein-rich items (Greek yogurt, string cheese, hard-boiled eggs, or trail mix)
- Low-sugar beverages (infused waters, sparkling water, kombucha, or cold brew)
- Plant-based and gluten-free options for dietary inclusivity
The key is variety. Whether your business is in a hospital setting, where staff may need quick yet nourishing options during long shifts, or a corporate office looking to promote mid-day mindful snacking, a well-stocked PICO market can be tailored to each environment.
By prioritizing high-quality, health-conscious products, PICO markets support the goals of wellness programs while keeping employees satisfied and energized.
Enhancing Employee Engagement with Healthy Eating
Providing healthy food is just the start — encouraging engagement turns good intentions into real behavioral change. Businesses can use creative strategies to make healthy eating more interactive and enjoyable:
- Wellness Challenges: Encourage departments or teams to participate in healthy snacking competitions or hydration challenges using items available in the PICO market.
- Discounts on Healthy Items: Offer price incentives or loyalty points for purchasing nutritious options.
- “Snack of the Week” Promotions: Highlight a rotating health-conscious item each week with in-market signage or internal communications.
- Employee Feedback Opportunities: Allow employees to vote on new healthy products they'd like to see stocked.
These initiatives do more than support good habits, and they also build a sense of community, recognition, and engagement around wellness efforts. The more personalized and inclusive the approach, the more likely employees are to participate and feel valued.
Leveraging Technology to Support Wellness Initiatives
PICO markets don’t just offer healthier food — they also come equipped with smart technology that can amplify corporate wellness programs. With integrated data systems, businesses can:
- Track purchasing trends to see which healthy items are most popular
- Adapt inventory based on seasonality, employee feedback, or dietary trends
- Identify gaps and opportunities for new wellness-focused products
- Incorporate rewards systems for healthy choices, offering points or discounts tied to wellness program participation
This data-driven approach helps businesses make informed decisions that reflect the actual preferences and needs of their workforce. And by using technology to align inventory with wellness goals, companies can deliver a more responsive, impactful program that evolves alongside employee lifestyles.
Benefits for Employers and Employees
Integrating PICO markets into a corporate wellness program offers tangible benefits for both employees and employers:
For Employers:
- Healthier employees may mean fewer sick days, lower healthcare costs, and higher productivity
- Boosted employee satisfaction and retention by investing in their well-being
- Reinforced corporate values around health, sustainability, and employee support
For Employees:
- Convenient, around-the-clock access to nutritious food and drinks
- Empowerment to make healthier choices without leaving the workplace
- A stronger sense of being cared for and supported by their employer
When wellness becomes part of the daily routine, it transforms the workplace into an environment that prioritizes health, focus, and resilience — one snack at a time.
Making Wellness a Priority with PICO Markets
Workplace wellness isn’t just a trend—it’s a business strategy. And as more companies look for meaningful ways to support their employees’ health, PICO markets offer a simple yet powerful solution. By integrating PICO markets into wellness programs, businesses can:
- Promote healthier habits
- Encourage positive employee engagement
- Leverage data to adapt and improve offerings over time
- Create a work environment where wellness is not just encouraged, but accessible and actionable
Whether you're looking to revamp your employee breakroom, replace outdated vending machines, or build a more robust wellness culture, PICO markets provide a flexible, modern, and health-focused option that employees will actually use and appreciate. Reach out to Bernick’s to explore how a custom PICO market can fit into your corporate wellness strategy — and fuel your team for long-term success.
