The certification relies exclusively on real-time employee surveys regarding corporate culture. While the typical U.S. firm sees a 57% approval rating from its staff, Golden Waffles climbed to 83% this year, up from 82% in 2025. CEO Mike DiBeneditto credited the achievement to the company's frontline staff, noting that the feedback loop is now being used to pinpoint specific areas for organizational improvement.

Sarah Lewis-Kulin, Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work, stated that the designation signals a consistent, intentional dedication to the employee experience. Established in 1937, the company currently services more than 50,000 locations across North America and 60 countries, maintaining its headquarters in Pennsylvania while managing the logistics of its widespread foodservice waffle programs.