The Struandale Engine Plant in Gqeberha recently opened its completely revamped and modernised Plant 2 Canteen, creating a vibrant and upmarket new common area for employees to meet and interact during mealtimes. “It’s important that when people come to work they feel appreciated, and the new canteen shows our commitment to our people and that we value them,” said Ockert Berry, VP Operations. The fresh new canteen provides a warm and welcoming environment incorporating classy wood finishes and tiles throughout along with all-new food warmers and fridges, and a bank of microwaves for employees to use for heating their meals.
A series of cubicles provide comfortable seating, each equipped with plug points that incorporate USB-A and USB-C ports for conveniently charging devices. There’s an assortment of Ford-branded goods on display in attractive new glass cabinets – all of which can be purchased from the Ford Store.
Two braais have also been added, and there’s a new American roadhouse-styled room, complete with circular booths trimmed in white and blue, which is used for special employee events such as long-service awards.
Employee Verbatims:
“The new canteen looks beautiful and state-of-the-art, and the menu has also been improved with more choices, which is nice. The charging points are a great feature as well.” Sithembele Memani
“The canteen is beautiful and has a lot of space. This gives employees a much better way of sitting together and interacting with each other, enhancing the overall culture at work. The food has also improved with greater variety.” Siphokazi Siletile
“This is a big upgrade compared to what we had before. There’s a lot more seating, and it is much more comfortable. It’s really nice.” Francois de Klerk
“The new canteen is marvellous and very smart. We can also now use our bank cards for purchases which is great. Really well done to the team on a great job.” Mahlomola Selokoma