Many organisations are placing restrictions on festive celebrations, resenting the outlay and fearing repercussions from excessive celebrating, according to the Chartered Management Institute’s annual Christmas Outlook survey.

The survey of 468 managers shows that 72% of organisations hold Christmas parties for their staff, slightly down on 74% last year. However, one in three managers express concern about disruption to work and 36% suggesting the party season has become too long. 

It found that 34% of organisations make no financial contribution towards end-of-year celebrations and 20% spend £20 or less per head for the Christmas party. Employers in Wales are amongst the most generous with 14% spending over £81 per head, compared with 1% in the South-East.

It found 31% believe discrimination laws will have an impact on Christmas parties, of these respondents, 68% are thinking twice before agreeing to holding parties, and 26% fear an increase in tribunals. Almost two-thirds also believe organisations will be forced to introduce codes of conduct, outlining acceptable behaviour at work parties.

However, despite these negative views, 70% of managers suggest Christmas parties are a good way to boost team morale and 78% think they are a way of thanking staff for their contributions during the year.