What is a coffee break?

A coffee break is a short pause of about 20 to 30 minutes, with coffee, other drinks and a light bite served between two sessions of a meeting, a training course or a conference. It does not replace a meal: it is a chance to rest, recharge and chat.

What it is used for at a corporate event

It is the standard format for training courses, long meetings, presentations and days with several talks. It is served in the same room or next door so that nobody misses the next session, and it helps attendees get to know each other.

Approximate quantities

Per person, the calculator in our price guide allows one and a half cups of hot drink (some people have a second), 330 ml of water, 1 savoury piece, 2 sweet pieces and 60 g of fruit. For 50 people, that comes to about 150 pieces and 3 kg of fruit. It is an approximate industry benchmark, adjusted to the time of the break and how many breaks there are in the day.

How it differs from other formats

• Unlike a welcome coffee, served on arrival, a coffee break is a pause partway through the day.
• Unlike a working lunch or a corporate lunch box, which cover a meal, a coffee break is short and light.
• If the event ends with guests standing and more food, you are looking at finger food or a standing lunch.

If the break stretches into a mid-morning spread with savoury dishes, it is closer to a corporate brunch.

For a step-by-step plan with quantities for 20, 50 or 100 people, read how to organise a coffee break.

How we can help

For a coffee break for your team in Madrid, see our office breakfasts and coffee breaks or tell us the date, numbers and venue and we will put together a proposal.

Related service: Breakfasts and coffee breaks

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