Lechef Launches Tech-Driven Workplace Dining Solution in MENA

Lechef, a Foodtech startup based in Saudi Arabia, has launched a tech-powered concept to revolutionize workplace dining across the MENA region. The company offers fresh, healthy, and grab-and-go meals through smart fridges, also known as ‘smart canteens,’ enabling employees to enjoy nutritious meals without leaving the office premises. By enhancing workplace engagement and well-being, lechef aims to boost productivity while promoting healthier eating habits.

Founded by serial entrepreneur Eugen Brikcius, who has over a decade of experience as a start-up CEO, lechef’s concept emerged from his observations of workplace dining challenges in the region. He noted that employees often waste valuable time deciding what to eat for lunch, leading to decreased productivity. Moreover, traditional food options were often limited, unhealthy, and inconvenient.

Lechef’s solution addresses these issues by integrating smart canteens directly into office spaces. These smart fridges, stocked with a variety of fresh meals, are accessible via a simple mobile app. Employees register once, scan the QR code on the canteen, select their meal, and enjoy a seamless experience as payment is automatically deducted through an RFID system, eliminating checkout lines.

The canteens, offered on a yearly subscription basis, provide greater flexibility than typical meal options, allowing for customized meals that cater to individual dietary preferences. lechef’s in-house chefs prepare over 200 recipes, offering weekly menus that include meals, snacks, and beverages, all delivered daily to the canteen. Additionally, meal options are regularly updated based on consumption data to ensure variety and meet employees’ needs.

lechef’s solution is designed for scalability, making it ideal for industries such as healthcare, education, banking, consulting, and government. Each smart canteen serves up to 50 employees, and larger setups can integrate additional elements like coffee shops and seating areas to create a welcoming, productivity-boosting environment.

Eugen Brikcius, Founder of lechef, commented, “At lechef, we believe that everyone deserves a healthy and wholesome meal during their busy workday. We aim to transform workplace dining into a nutritious experience that enhances employee morale and productivity.”

Lechef recently completed its seed funding round, securing an undisclosed amount to support product development, hiring key talent, and launching marketing initiatives. The startup is currently piloting its solution with Keeta, the Saudi arm of the global food delivery platform Meituan.

With its innovative approach to workplace dining, lechef is poised to change how companies in the MENA region approach employee wellness and productivity.