Merton caterers are heralding the return of the Christmas party after trade was hit by the recession last year.
by Sophie Evans, Chris Hewett, Ian Bodger and Matt Sherry
Merton caterers are heralding the return of the Christmas party after trade was hit by the recession last year.
The festive knees-up is making a welcome return with bosses treating their staff as the downturn eases.
Helen Malone from Bovingdons Catering Ltd said: “We’ve had a lot of bookings this year which is good because many smaller caterers have not survived.
“Although what people want is perhaps less extravagant we are welcoming the renewed interest.”
The UK is still in recession after the economy contracted by 0.4% between July and September.
With the catering and hotels sector performing particularly badly, events companies are counting on Christmas trade to provide a boost.
Kate Tomlinson of Create Food Ltd Christmas team, Wimbledon, says despite bookings picking up, there is still a long way to go.
She added: “What is happening is that we are getting a lot of late bookings but we still need and want people to have more parties.”
Carol Brown, First Serve Catering, specialises in private functions, which have taken the biggest hit.
She said: “I am down on last year, but I’m still fully booked – I haven’t had to turn anyone away.
“Corporate functions have been steady business over the last two years. It’s private parties that are still recovering.”
A study released by Human Resources magazine last week showed employees are expecting cut backs despite the parties going ahead.
More than half of those surveyed believed champagne would be replaced by cheaper Cava and 70% said parties would be held in their offices rather than expensive venues.
Miss Malone said: “Although there are more bookings this year, bosses are definitely cheaping out a bit.”
