Why hydration matters in the workplace

Keeping people hydrated isn’t just a “nice to have” anymore, it’s a strategic workplace essential. For leaders running large office spaces, hydration plays a key role in wellbeing, productivity, sustainability, and even workplace culture.

When clean, great-tasting water is available around the clock, people feel better, focus better and work better. And with newer generations actively seeking alternatives to coffee, modern hydration has become an important part of a future-ready employee experience.

This article looks at why hydration matters and how innovative systems like Aquablu Refill+ and Waterlogic help organisations raise standards while keeping costs, plastic waste and maintenance low.

Mild dehydration, even as little as 1–2% fluid loss can affect concentration, memory and mood. Studies (Masento, N. A. et al. 2014)  show that staying hydrated helps employees:

• Maintain sharper focus
• Improve decision-making
• Reduce afternoon fatigue
• Support mental wellbeing during long working days

For busy offices where hundreds of people rely on shared amenities, accessible hydration points mean fewer distractions and more time doing meaningful work.

What Facilities Managers tell us:
Water stations reduce queues at coffee machines, help manage traffic in communal areas and support smoother daily flow.

What HR teams tell us:
Hydration is a simple, low-effort wellbeing win that employees genuinely value.

Younger employees, particularly Gen Z, are drinking less coffee* and choosing more functional hydration options like flavoured water, sparkling water, vitamin-infused drinks and low-sugar alternatives.

Modern hydration systems allow companies to meet these expectations effortlessly without alienating any of their workforce:

• Aquablu offers filtered, flavoured and enriched water options directly from the tap - a seamless way to provide healthier choices without additional stocking or waste.
• Waterlogic systems use advanced filtration and Firewall® UV purification, delivering high-quality still or sparkling water on demand.

Providing more than “just water” shows your organisation is listening to the needs of today’s workforce.

Sustainability targets increasingly sit with both Facilities and HR, and hydration is one of the simplest areas to make a measurable impact.

Plumbed in office water dispensers replace the need for:

• Single-use plastic bottles
• Stocked fridges
• Unnecessary deliveries
• Energy-heavy kettles and boilers operating all day

Large workplaces need solutions that simply work, consistently, safely and without taking teams away from other priorities.

Hydration stations provide:

• Preventative maintenance
• Remote monitoring
• Fast servicing
• Stock-free operation
• Safe, hygienic dispensing for high-traffic areas

Facilities teams can rely on stable uptime, while HR managers can focus on wellbeing initiatives rather than troubleshooting appliances.

Coffee culture isn’t going anywhere but offering choice matters.

Hydration stations support:

• Afternoon energy without caffeine crashes
• Options for people who prefer to exclude or moderate caffeine
• Inclusive wellbeing for pregnant employees, those with health considerations or those simply wanting a lighter option
• Easy access to chilled, sparkling or infused water that feels like a treat, not a compromise

When water tastes great, people naturally drink more of it.

How much water should be consumed by individuals each day

The amount varies by person but the NHS advises that on average you should aim to drink six to eight glasses of water each day.  As workers spend a large proportion of their day at work, providing hydration stations encourages your employees to drink throughout the day.

How many hydration points do we need?

A typical ratio is one unit per 75–100 employees, depending on footfall and layout.

Are filtered systems more cost-effective than bottled water?

Yes. Most offices see material cost savings when switching to plumbed options, especially when eliminating orders, bottle storage and waste handling.  Companies that offer cans of flavoured water could also see savings when using a flavoured water solution like Aquablu.

Can hydration stations support ESG reporting?

Aquablu offers a monthly impact report that helps track usage and sustainability improvements.

Is installation disruptive in large offices?

Not usually. Most units fit into existing kitchenettes or break-out areas with minimal downtime. Some are completely freestanding and are quickly installed if plumbing and power are already in place.  You can also request furniture for tabletop machines.

How can employers encourage water consumption in the workplace

As well as providing water stations, employers can educate employees on the signs and risks of dehydration, offer reusable cups and bottles and encourage a culture that encourages hydration.