The all-consuming work culture that characterised the past has long given way to an approach that prioritises wellbeing in the workplace: for 86% of employees, it is just as important as their salary, while 89% say that feeling good at work allows them to work better, according to a survey conducted by Wellhub among over five thousand workers in various countries. Furthermore, 90% admit to experiencing symptoms of burnout in the last year, while 85% would consider leaving a company that does not care about the wellbeing of its employees.
Various reports confirm it: according to Randstad, the five most important factors in choosing an employer today are work-life balance (59%), a pleasant working atmosphere (56%), pay and benefits (54%), job security (47%), and diversity and inclusion (45%).
From a business perspective, companies that adopt corporate wellbeing strategies can reap tangible benefits in terms of engagement, loyalty, attractiveness and retention: a 20% increase in productivity is estimated, with an additional value per employee of almost €60,000, compared to a current average of €50,000, according to a study by The European House – Ambrosetti and JOINTLY.
In line with this trend, an increasing number of companies are investing in corporate wellness, i.e., the range of initiatives, benefits and strategies designed to improve staff wellbeing. Some examples? An in-house gym or one with a partnership agreement; yoga or pilates classes in the office; exercise and healthy eating programmes available on the intranet; medical check-ups; and consultations with trainers and dieticians, as well as coaches and psychologists, in line with a holistic approach that promotes physical, mental and emotional health alike.
A driving force for wellness and team unity
Among the companies demonstrating their commitment to corporate wellness is Decathlon Italia, a global multi-specialist sports retailer. “Bring people together through sport to make wellbeing accessible for all” is the philosophy behind the company’s strategy, which places people at the heart of everything.
“The wellbeing of our teams is a strategic priority, in line with our history and our purpose. Through dedicated initiatives, we promote the discovery of the wonders of sport to encourage socialising and a healthy lifestyle,” explains Nicoletta La Torre, External & Corporate Communication Manager. “We have an ‘Animation Group’ – a diverse team of staff members who, at every site or service, arrange sports activities for the whole team, ensuring inclusivity and participation.”
To this end, Decathlon allocates a specific budget – “a fixed percentage of each unit’s total payroll, earmarked exclusively for sporting initiatives, whether they fall within or outside the normal work schedule.” Last but not least, a focus on sustainability: the activities are designed to promote the reuse of the company’s sports equipment, preserving the products provided for future shared experiences. “This approach reflects our brand’s people-centred nature, responding to one of our core business principles: we play sport and celebrate victories together,” La Torre emphasises once again.
For corporate wellness, check out the Recharge Room
Starpool’s mission is to promote all-round wellness, providing self-care solutions for both private individuals and a wide range of commercial establishments, such as day spas, hotels, gyms and businesses. Established in 1975 in Val di Fiemme, the Trentino-based company has consolidated its market position over time, leading to the introduction in 2020 of an in-house scientific research department, which works alongside the research and development division.
Sixteen patents have been filed to date, and there have been several collaborations with leading organisations in the medical, sports and neuroscience sectors, including the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) at West Virginia University, the Laureate Institute of Brain Research in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the University of Brescia, Mapei Sport in Olgiate Olona (in the province of Varese), the Physical Therapy Lab, Pro Motus in Bolzano, and the ProVita Physiotherapie Zentrum in Germany.
Within Casa Starpool, the company’s headquarters located at the foot of the Dolomites, employees themselves can make daily use of the innovative programme designed to promote prevention and holistic wellbeing in the workplace: in addition to offices, production departments and showrooms, there is a training centre, a company gym, a wellness terrace, a corporate spa and a Recharge Room. “I have always believed that companies should be able to create inclusive work environments focused on people’s wellbeing. The way Casa Starpool has been designed in every respect is a tangible sign of our commitment to putting people at the heart, promoting balance and personal growth,” emphasises CEO Riccardo Turri.
The Recharge Room, in particular, is the answer Starpool offers to Italian and international companies (including Google in San Francisco) that wish to create spaces within their premises for mental and physical rejuvenation, where staff can work on stress management, boosting the immune system and stimulating cognitive and creative abilities. A variety of techniques and equipment may be combined, including dry float therapy, molecular hydrogen inhalation (Molecular Hydrogen Booster) and brain training programmes, all of which bring the benefits of mindfulness and breathing techniques into the daily working routine.
In addition, a Wellness Coach – a virtual and interactive guide – helps employees select their preferred activity based on their wellness goals and desired level of difficulty. Every product is designed to ensure energy efficiency, with a focus on sustainability.
Cover: Envato image