economy
The office lunch was once a luxury. Now it’s just a pain
A Mad Men-style steakhouse break would be welcome. But I’ve had it with the Lunch Industrial Complex
TL;DR
- The concept of a mandatory office lunch is considered obsolete and a relic of the Industrial Revolution.
- Modern office jobs do not require the same length of break as historical manual labor.
- The modern office lunch emphasizes convenience and expediency, often leading to unfulfilling meals.
- Economic changes, such as the collapse of urban business districts and the struggles of companies like Sweetgreen, are impacting the viability of the traditional lunch market.
- The author suggests alternative uses for break time, like napping or reading, over a forced meal.
- The author personally prefers a nutritious breakfast or an early dinner over a midday meal unless socially or professionally obligated.