UK workplaces are adapting to the era of hybrid working and rising costs by hosting more staff parties than ever before, but with a new focus on including the whole family. In an effort to foster a sense of workplace community and togetherness, businesses are opting for smaller, family-focused work events instead of the extravagant corporate parties of the past.
Despite quieter offices due to remote working, the number of workplace parties is increasing, as revealed by a recent survey conducted by Poptop, a leading online party planning platform. Surprisingly, the survey showed a significant 48% increase in staff gatherings and parties compared to 2019. What’s even more notable is the shift in the types of parties being planned, with a massive 57% increase in new “family-friendly” corporate events.
These smaller, budget-conscious work gatherings now welcome team members to bring their partners and children along to join in the festivities, marking a departure from the traditional boozy Christmas events that were synonymous with workplace culture in the past. This change is also reflected in the choice of party services. Buffet catering and bartender bookings have declined by 40% since 2019, while corporate food services like BBQs have seen a 60% increase. Family activity bookings, including magicians and children’s entertainers, have skyrocketed by 100% compared to 2019 figures. So, what is driving this significant shift in workplace party culture?
The rise of hybrid working is a key factor. According to the Office of National Statistics, 44% of UK workers now report some level of hybrid working. While hybrid models offer numerous benefits, they also pose a challenge for HR departments in terms of fostering inter-team connections and maintaining workplace culture remotely. Bringing teams together regularly and encouraging personal connections among employees have become essential for productivity and overall business success.
As the workplace integrates into the home through hybrid working, employees naturally seek to bring more aspects of their home life into the office. Family workplace events serve as a unique solution, bridging the gap between these previously separate worlds. Moreover, with the increasing costs for families, companies can now provide their employees with a cost-effective way to entertain the entire family.
These family-friendly events also benefit businesses in terms of budgeting. Hosting inclusive workplace parties at the office or nearby parks and outdoor spaces significantly reduces venue costs. Consequently, team get-togethers can be organized more frequently, with multiple Poptop clients reporting planned corporate events every few months, compared to the traditional once or twice a year.
Eugene Shestopal, CEO of Poptop, commented on the changing party planning patterns post-COVID: “Getting staff together frequently has become absolutely essential, and more HR departments are starting to realize it. At the same time, the shift in work-life balance encourages companies to arrange more family-friendly gatherings, making them more accessible for people with kids.”
About Poptop
Poptop is a leading party planning platform that offers innovative services and experiences from some of the UK’s best event suppliers. With their unique ‘Live Pricing & Availability’ technology, Poptop aims to simplify party planning and create a seamless booking experience. They have successfully planned over 85,000 events, establishing themselves as one of the largest party planning platforms in the UK.
For more information, please visit: https://www.poptop.uk.com/
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