Its All About Christmas

This Christmas is expected to be a bumper time for retailers as it is predicted that almost £12bn will be spent stocking up on food, drink and gifts over the festive period, according the British Retail Consortium (BRC).

That headline figure is encouraging and almost five per cent higher than last year’s total salesp; but there is a sting in the tail. Although at first sight the news looks good for retailers who have struggled to get going this year, the BRC warns that most of the growth in sales will be driven as a result of heavily discounted goods.

The continued global credit squeeze has made high street retailers fearful that their sales will slump as people are left with less cash, after steep mortgage repayment increases cut into their take-home pay. But, at least in the short term sales are expected to rise as everyone stocks up for Christmas. Food retailers are eagerly anticipating a four percent rise on last year’s festive season sales, as average UK household spending on food and drink is tipped to top the £169 mark.

The BRC is also predicting that we’re all going to be more generous this Christmas, with the authors of the report anticipating that each of us will spend an average £435 on presents, 12% higher than last year’s figures. Despite the financial market turmoil most people are relatively optimistic due to the low level of unemployment, and therefore the relative security of their own job.

Of course, given the perilous state of the financial markets and the huge total of personal debt in the UK, many debt specialists are urging that people cut back their spending this year, rather than increase it. At least some appear to be heeding that advice; in a separate report Mintel reports that 22% of those questioned expect to spend less this year, compared to only 18% last Christmas. In addition, more of us have confessed to the need to stick to a budget this year, with 46% questioned saying that was prerequisite this year as opposed to 38% last year.

That budgetary caution is well-advised as the Citizen’s Advice Bureau have recently revealed that record numbers of UK residents are approaching the organisation seeking effective debt advice. In 2006/07 almost 1.7million people approached them for advice, an increase of 20% on the previous year’s figures.

Whereas in the past homeowners could count on taking out personal or secured loans as effective debt solutions, they will now find that lenders have become more cautious about offering such products. Citizen’s Advice to those is budget now as you may have real difficulty in the future.

Corporate Christmas Party Themes

This year for your corporate Christmas party why not try something a little different and host a themed event.  A fun and exciting way to end the great year, your staff and clients are sure to feel appreciated.

Below are some ideas you may wish to try;

1.       Grease inspired Corporate Picnic

A Corporate picnic is a traditional Christmas Party event, but you can change it up by turning it into a carnival.  Remember the end of year break – up party in the movie Grease, let this inspire your theme.   You could have carnival rides such as the Ferris wheel, house of mirrors, carousels, roller coasters, teacups, dodgem cars and more. 

A great event for the whole family, this grease inspired carnival is sure to be a hit.

Just don’t forget the fairy floss and candy popcorn!

2.       Circus

The big top has come to town.  With clowns, jugglers, acrobats, trapeze, and lion tamer you could make you event a circus extravaganza.

A great family day and another good one to do as a corporate picnic.

3.       Winter Wonderland

Add cool, seasonal style to your holiday soiree.

It can be simple and chic. Keep your scheme silver and white. 

A snow man set in front of a backdrop of an enchanted every green forest and winter castle can add to the magic of your winter wonderland.  Remember Santa Claus does come from the north pole!

4.       Santa’s Workshop

Creating an event with hired elves and Santa can set the scene for Santa’s workshop.  Explore your imagination as this event can be as elaborate as you like it.  You could have stations for all the different types of toys.  Of course you’ll be able to sit on Santa’s knee to tell him want you want for Christmas.  Maybe you’ll be lucky and get an early Christmas present from Santa.

A favourite for young and old alike. Santa’s workshop would make a create theme for your next Christmas Party event.

5.       Beach Party

A tropical atmosphere of surf, sun and sand is sure to get the Beach Christmas party started.  Complete with beach games like beach volleyball, soccer or cricket, there will be something to do for everyone.  Hire a couple of Jet boats and make a huge splash on the day.

Catering for this event could be a simple as a BBQ or a fruit buffet.

6.       Horse Riding day

Get out of the office and do something physical.  A horse riding trek is the perfect start to your corporate Christmas Party.   Start the day early with the ride and then for lunch take your staff to a beach side restaurant where you can appreciate beautiful surrounding.  After lunch enjoy a social drink under the mistletoe.

7.       Corporate Christmas Games

Games a great outlet and fun way to end the year with a bang. A treasure hunt will keep them entertained for hours.

You could also create some internal competition with a staff football, touch football or volleyball game.

   Casino Night

With the simple roll of the dice or turn of the card, you could have the ultimate Christmas Party to remember.

Play a game of black jack or Texas Hold’em as you slowly sip you martini – shaken not stirred.

So whether you decide to go with Vegas vibe or Monte Carlo chic, lady luck is sure to be on your side.

So don’t restrict your corporate Christmas party event to the office or a restaurant, be creative and let your staff know that you appreciate them by throwing them a great Christmas Party.

Merry Christmas!

For more information visit http://www.nusuevents.com.au