Many of the world’s best companies recognise the benefits of on-the-job fun to optimise employees’ wellbeing and Great Annual Savings Group (GAS) is set to join the best of them with its’ very own e-gaming zone.
Situated in the forthcoming, state-of-the-art new HQ, “GASplay” will feature a range of modern consoles and retro arcade style games, catering for millennials and those who are young-at-heart. Colleagues will be free to take advantage of the fun on offer – perfect as a mid-afternoon energy boost or even as an ice breaker for new team members.
Whilst on the surface, this may appear counterproductive, science suggests employers are on to something. According to Forbes, psychologists, along with gamers themselves, say the benefits go beyond fun or amusement. Many people use gaming to find moments of stress relief throughout the workday.
Unlike scrolling Facebook or browsing online, modern games are fully engaging and even provide the kind of virtual confidence boost that we might not achieve in our day-to-day work.
With ambitious plans to double its’ headcount by the end of the year, GAS is also encouraging colleagues to think creatively when it comes to account management and new business development.
Mark Jones, Associate Director (UKI Enterprise) at GAS, is particularly optimistic about the impact the gaming zone will have on colleagues’ outlook and professional relationships with one another.
He said: “GASplay is about much more than filling time during a lunch break. It is about fostering an environment of innovation and creativity. We work in a demanding and competitive industry and pride ourselves on our forward-thinking approach which sets us apart. By encouraging our colleagues to think creatively and master changing circumstances, we are confident the GAS team will be better equipped to handle day-to-day curveballs.
“We also have a thriving social scene at GAS, which sees colleagues from all over the country come together throughout the year for events, parties and celebrations. GASplay will provide a fun environment for more socialising outside of work hours and help nurture authentic relationships between colleagues.
“Our staff have used gaming tournaments in the past to raise money for our corporate charities, so we could see this getting competitive further and raising even more funds.”
Gaming is certainly not everyone’s cup of tea. But, across the new 80,000 square foot campus there will be something for everyone. The Group is preparing to recruit an Executive Chef to cook up a storm in new subsidised catering facility GASTRO for GAS foodies. Or for fitness and sporting enthusiasts, GASfit is a 7,500 square foot gymnasium with an expert health and wellbeing team to help colleagues wring every drop out of their time exercising.
The new HQ will also feature an informal zen zone and an open-plan eating area serving bespoke coffee with coastal views. Whether during a break, before or after work, there are plenty of ways to top up that work-life balance at GAS, and that’s what we call living #theGASlife.