NOVATO -- The Republic of Tea emphasizes a "sip by sip rather than gulp by gulp lifestyle" and strives to create an environment in which employees can achieve and maintain a balanced and fulfilling life, said Ron Rubin, owner.
Health is a high priority for the organic tea company, so employees are provided with perks such as annual gym memberships, an on-site nutritionist, on-site yoga classes, and a free pair of New Balance Shoes each year. The shoes come in handy since the company also offers two additional 10-minute breaks each day so that employees can take a walk outside "to relieve stress and promote fun throughout the workday," Mr. Rubin said.
Stress levels are also kept at bay by the Feng Shui atmosphere at the company. "We worked with a Feng Shui architect" to apply these elements to the offices, said Todd Rubin, vice president of sales and marketing. "The five elements -- fire, wood, earth, water, and metal relationships -- were used to select primary materials, finishes and colors in our office. We have taken these same applications to our facility in Southern Illinois and guests to both offices comment on how our office has a much different feeling than their own and others they have visited."
In addition to physical health and low stress, employees also find balance and well-being through helping others. The Republic of Tea gives employees two paid days per year during which they can volunteer at the nonprofit of their choice.
