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Axed Christmas work parties hurting already struggling hospitality sector

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Thu, 26 Nov 2020, 5:15PM
(Photo / Getty)
(Photo / Getty)

Axed Christmas work parties hurting already struggling hospitality sector

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Thu, 26 Nov 2020, 5:15PM

Hospitality venues are being served a fresh Covid-19 blow as some employers move to cancel or tone down festive work parties amid lingering Covid-19 concern and budget constraints.

A survey from the Restaurant Association shows Christmas function bookings are down on normal levels and about a third of venues are experiencing Christmas party cancellations.

One venue included in the survey said it was 70 per cent down on large functions, while others signalled that both corporate and general bookings were down.

The Association's Chief Executive, Marisa Bidois, says a massive disappointment for the 60 per cent of members who've been impacted.

She told Heather du Plessis-Allan it's likely caused by the Covid fog hanging over businesses.

"Many businesses have let people go, so this all contributes towards downsizing for Christmas parties."

The Employers and Manufacturers Association says the pandemic has forced employers to tighten the purse strings.

Head of Advocacy Alan McDonald says recent restructuring also plays a part.

"People don't want to be seen out there celebrating where they have lost friends and colleagues through redundancy process."

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