Member Article

Christmas parties canned as employers turn Scrooge

With the economic downturn now firmly upon us, new research suggests that the many employers are planning to ditch their Christmas party to save costs.

In previous years it’s been hangovers, health and safety, and harassment which have caused problems for those planning Christmas parties. This year, figures from employment firm Peninsula show that 74% of employers believe that Christmas parties do not benefit their companies at all.

Peter Done, MD of Peninsula said: “The economic downturn has forced a lot of companies to cull their Christmas celebrations. With the economic conditions the way they are, firms just can not warrant spending money on a Christmas party.

“These events represent a considerable cost to any firm, whether they employ five people or 50, and many employers consider this another process in tightening their belt and making their company more cost efficient. Firms who have been forced to make people redundant may also consider spending money on a Christmas party inappropriate as well as detrimental to the streamlining plan they are implementing in their business.

“Christmas parties do have some big advantages. They are an effective way to encourage staff to bond as a team and often bring them closer together. They also have a noticeable impact on staff morale, something that employers need to keep on top of during this period of economic uncertainty.

“Employers need to think hard about their Christmas parties, weighing up the pro’s and con’s in relation to their business. Employees should bear in mind that Christmas parties are not a contractual right and should take into account the current state of the economy.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .