Staples Business Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples, announced the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota, Florida as the winner of its national $50,000 breakroom makeover contest. Mote Marine Laboratory was chosen from thousands of submissions as the grand prize winner based on a creative limerick written by one of its scientists.

“The definition of a breakroom is much different today than it was a decade ago or even last year, but businesses shouldn’t overlook this important space and how it’s used,” said Neil Ringel, president, North American Delivery, Staples. “We’re looking forward to working with Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium to design and transform their space for all staff to enjoy. We’ve seen that transformations such as these not only improve productivity and collaboration, but also retention and recruitment.”

A Staples design expert will work closely with the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium to create a space that goes beyond a place to heat up lunch. Staples Business Advantage will provide the laboratory access to its solutions – including coffee options, healthy snacks, flexible office furniture, cleaning solutions, and technology products – as well as expert design and installation services.

“We’re thrilled to have won this makeover contest and we look forward to working with Staples on this transformation,” said Dr. Michael P. Crosby, President & CEO of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. “The staff at our nonprofit institution do amazing work, often with modest means, and they put our oceans, animals and community first. Now, thanks to Staples, we can give them something almost as special as they are. We can’t wait to see the result.”