When it comes to workplace lunch programs, most don't know that the way the money is spent is just as importnat as how. In our new white paper, we look at the the two primary ways organizations fund lunch: the Distributed Spend System and the Centralized Spend Program. Understanding the difference is key to choosing a program that actually supports your priorities.
The Distributed Spend System includes stipends, allowances, and individual ordering. It’s flexible and easy to administer, and it works well for fully remote teams or workplaces that prioritize convenience or those who don’t rely on shared meals to support culture. But research consistently shows that when meals are sourced and eaten individually, companies have less insight into participation, connection, waste, and dietary patterns—making it harder to align food spend with broader goals.
The Centralized Spend Program pools spend into a shared, on-site catering experience. Studies on commensality and group dynamics show that shared meals increase informal interaction, strengthen team cohesion, and support a stronger sense of belonging. Centralized programs also give organizations clearer visibility into attendance, preferences, and waste, allowing food spend to be optimized over time.
Choosing the right structure isn’t about trends—it’s about matching your lunch strategy to your workplace goals.
Read the full white paper on the Sifted Insights page.Choosing the Right Lunch Funding StructureChoosing the Right Lunch Funding Structure