Intel resumes providing free coffee and tea to employees in a bid to boost morale

Intel told its employees this week that it's bringing back free coffee and tea in the workplace. It's one of many benefits the company cancelled last summer in an effort to cut its annual budget by $10 billion.

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In an internal statement, Intel said that despite ongoing financial difficulties, small conveniences play a significant role in employees' daily lives. The company hopes the move will support the company culture. However, free fruit, which was also cancelled last summer, will not return.

Employees say morale has been hurt by the company's poor financial performance and cuts aimed at restoring profitability. Intel's chief human resources officer, Christy Pambianchi, said the company was spending $100 million a year on free and discounted food and beverages, which had become an unacceptable luxury.

In August, Intel announced plans to lay off more than 16,000 employees, more than 15% of its global workforce. The company's stock has since fallen to its lowest level in 50 years.

Source: Oregonlive