New research out today from lastminute.com reveals that almost 11 million working Brits are snubbing the recession by going ahead with their work Christmas parties.
And while 23% of those admit their parties will be held ‘on a budget’, these parties will still pump £472,716,200 back into the economy.
Workers are pulling together in the spirit of Christmas, relying on office camaraderie to make sure the party goes off with a bang. 25% of workers having parties are contributing to the budget in some way, embracing the new BYOB (Bring Your Own Bubbly) for office toasts before heading out or sourcing entertainment from their own teams (boss by day, Disco Dave by night!), determined to make the most of the opportunity to celebrate Christmas with colleagues.
The lastminute.com Christmas Party team has seen a 34% rise in bookings on the same period last year, as office workers are increasingly taking the organisation into their own hands and getting the best deals early.
"The office Christmas Party is the social event of the year for many workers," says Mark Bower, Lifestyle Expert at lastminute.com.
"Our research has shown that nearly half the country’s Christmas party workforce think the office party is crucial for staff morale. After such a demanding year, it is great to see that the UK is mucking in to make sure the office festivities still go ahead."
· 40% of workers are definitely holding an office party this year
Of those:
· One in six will be contributing to the budget
· 44% believe the Christmas party is crucial to boost morale
· 50% enjoy socialising with their colleagues at the Christmas party
· Only 12% enjoy the office gossip from the Christmas party
· 46% say the companies they work for will spend up to £50 per head
Tagged in Christmas