We’re highlighting concerns over the future of Scotland’s tea break tradition, with new research suggesting the everyday ritual could be at risk.

For generations, the tea break has been part of everyday life in Scotland. Whether it’s a quick catch-up with colleagues, five minutes away from the desk or simply a chance to enjoy a favourite sweet treat, it’s a ritual many of us have grown up with.

Our new research suggests the traditional tea break may be under threat.

A survey of 1,000 Scottish adults found that more than half (53%) believe tea break culture is at risk of being lost due to changing working habits. Busy schedules, increasing workloads and the expectation to always be connected were cited as some of the main reasons people struggle to take a proper break during the day.

Despite this, Scots haven’t fallen out of love with their afternoon treat.

In fact, our research found the most popular time to reach for something sweet is between 2pm and 4pm, with almost one in three people (29%) choosing this afternoon window for a tea break treat.

Bringing back the tea break

To celebrate one of Scotland’s best-loved traditions, we’ve teamed up with fellow Scottish brand Brodies to encourage people to take a well-earned pause.

Together, we’re launching a search for the people who deserve a proper tea break the most. Whether it’s a colleague who never steps away from their desk, a friend who’s always looking after everyone else, or someone who simply never stops, we want to hear about them.

Selected nominees will receive one of our emergency tea break packs with individually wrapped McGhee’s treats and Brodies tea bags.

Aisling McGhee, Commercial Director at McGhee’s Family Bakers, said:

“Tea breaks have always been part of working life in Scotland. They give people a reason to stop, catch up with the people around them and take a proper breather.

“It’s too easy for that to disappear when everyone is busy, constantly connected and expected to always be available. We shouldn’t lose something that has been part of Scottish working life for generations simply because we feel we don’t have time for it.

“We wanted to give people a chance to recognise someone who rarely gets the opportunity to stop and say: you deserve five minutes and a cup of tea too.”

Mina MacKenzie, Retail Partner Manager at Brodies, added:

“Tea has always had a place at the heart of the working day, and a tea break can bring people together without anyone really thinking about it.

“What’s interesting about the research is that people are still reaching for a treat in the afternoon, but the time to actually stop and enjoy it is disappearing.

“We all know someone who is always too busy to take a break, so we’re giving people the chance to nominate them for one.”

Taking the tea break to Glasgow

To kick off the campaign, our team headed to Glasgow Central Station, handing out emergency tea break packs to commuters and busy workers on the move.

The giveaway served as a reminder that even a short pause can make a difference during a busy day.

Nominate someone deserving

Know someone who could do with a proper tea break?

Email teabreak@mcgheesbakery.co.uk and tell us why they deserve one. Selected nominees will receive an emergency tea break pack.

Because everyone deserves five minutes and a cuppa.