UK Workplaces Embrace Family-Focused Staff Parties in the Era of Hybrid Working
As hybrid working becomes the norm and living costs rise, UK companies are shifting away from formal work parties and instead opting for team events that include employees’ families. This trend aims to foster a sense of workplace community and togetherness.
Although offices may be quieter due to remote working, workplaces are not slowing down when it comes to team-building events for their staff. A recent survey conducted by Poptop, one of the UK’s leading online party planning platforms, reveals that the number of workplace parties is actually increasing. More and more UK businesses are choosing smaller, family-focused work events instead of the extravagant corporate parties of the past.
Changing trends in corporate parties
Poptop surveyed 370 business clients to understand the evolving trends in corporate party planning amidst the rise of hybrid working and the cost of living crisis. Surprisingly, the survey found a significant 48% increase in staff gatherings and parties compared to 2019. However, the types of parties being organized are changing. The survey showed a massive 57% rise in new “family-friendly” corporate events.
These smaller, budget-conscious work gatherings encourage team members to bring their partners and children to join in the festivities. This shift is a departure from the traditional alcohol-fueled Christmas events that were once synonymous with workplace culture in the 21st century. The change in tone is also reflected in the types of party services chosen by corporate bookers. Buffet catering and bartender bookings have declined by 40% since 2019, while corporate food services such as 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 culture shift?
The rise of hybrid working
Part of the answer lies in the ongoing transition to remote and hybrid working. According to the Office of National Statistics, 44% of UK workers now report engaging in some form of hybrid working. More workplaces than ever are adopting hybrid models, and while there are many benefits, HR departments face the challenge of maintaining motivation among employees. Fostering inter-team connections, which were once crucial for workplace culture, becomes more difficult through online calls and remote office software. Bringing teams together regularly and fostering genuine personal connections between employees has become essential for productivity and overall business success.
With the shift to hybrid working, the concept of “the office” feels less isolated from family life. As the workplace integrates into the home, it is natural for employees to want to bring more of their home life into the office. Family-focused workplace events offer a novel solution that bridges these previously separate domains. Moreover, with increasing costs for families, companies can now provide their employees with a cost-effective way to entertain the entire family.
Benefits for businesses
These new family-friendly events offer advantages for businesses as well. They are easier to budget for compared to traditional corporate events. These inclusive workplace parties often take place in the office or nearby parks and outdoor spaces, resulting in significant savings on venue rentals. As a result, team gatherings can be organized more frequently, with several Poptop clients reporting planned corporate events every few months, rather than once or twice a year.
“We have observed significant changes in party planning patterns post-COVID, not only among private bookers but also corporate parties and gatherings. With a large portion of people working remotely or in a hybrid model, it has become absolutely essential to bring staff together frequently, and more and more HR departments are realizing this. Additionally, the shift in work-life balance is prompting companies to arrange more family-friendly gatherings, making them more accessible for people with children.” – Eugene Shestopal, CEO of Poptop
About Poptop
Poptop helps people take their parties to the next level by inspiring party planners with extraordinary services and experiences from some of the UK’s best event suppliers. Their unique ‘Live Pricing & Availability’ technology makes party planning straightforward and enjoyable, alleviating the stress associated with event planning and creating a seamless booking experience. Poptop has facilitated over 85,000 planned events, making it one of the largest party planning platforms in the UK.