The corporate event landscape in the UK is undergoing a significant transformation as seen in the remarkable 639% increase in demand for non-alcoholic beverages.
- Summer 2024 marks a shift towards sobriety and inclusivity at corporate events, with non-alcoholic drink demand booming.
- The average corporate party budget is experiencing a shift, with alcoholic drink allocations reduced by 5%.
- Venues are witnessing a 42% increase in bookings, driven by a preference for wellness-focused events.
- A growing trend towards early venue bookings highlights a proactive approach to planning memorable corporate gatherings.
Summer 2024 is redefining corporate events with a dramatic rise in sobriety and inclusivity, as demand for non-alcoholic beverages has surged by 639% year-on-year, according to recent figures from Togather. This shift represents a move towards health-conscious and high-quality experiences as corporate budgets for alcoholic drinks see a notable decrease of 5%. Gin consumption is down by 38%, while beer and wine have each seen a 20% decline, signifying a preference for more restrained and inclusive gatherings.
There’s a growing trend among employees and employers to embrace events that focus on wellness and inclusivity. The availability of alcohol-free options is becoming crucial, as 34% of employees currently avoid work-related social events due to alcohol. This demand for inclusive venues and activities indicates a significant change in corporate culture and event planning priorities.
Significant changes in booking patterns for office summer parties have been observed, with a heightened interest in early arrangements. While January bookings remained constant, there was a marked increase in early inquiries during February and March, signaling a proactive approach to securing venues for the busy summer season.
Non-alcoholic drink demand continues to grow, accompanied by a 5% decrease in the average drinks budget for parties, now standing at £1,915. This inclination towards non-alcoholic alternatives is evident as demand for traditional options such as gin, beer, and wine has significantly diminished. The trend underscores a shift towards more inclusive celebrations aligned with health-conscious lifestyles.
Evolution in guest preferences reflects a pivot towards informal and sustainable options at summer parties. With a 25% decrease in canapé demand, and declines in interest in French cuisine and afternoon teas by 23%, companies are increasingly opting for greener practices. This includes a notable rise in demand for Halal meals by 15%, while demand for Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free offerings remains steady despite a slight decrease in vegetarian and vegan requests.
The corporate event scene is evolving, making room for inclusivity and health-conscious choices, reshaping summer gatherings.
