If you hadn’t realised, the UK is certainly in a recession, probably in a depression and quite possibly in the biggest trouble since Paul Revere jumped on his horse and jump-started the US revolution.
So what does UK business do as the drooping fangs of failed capitalism run their drool over its rancid carcass? Yes, it has a party and it seems that this year the party is more widespread than ever.
According to a survey conducted by online software accountancy company Crunch, 82% of the UK’s smallest businesses (up to 20 staff) have held or plan to hold a Christmas party. The company goes on to say that only 18% have cancelled this year’s bash, compared with 27% in 2010.
Moreever, 78% of those surveyed said they either missed targets, downsized or laid off staff in 2011 and half of those holding parties said celebrations would be the same size or even bigger than last year. Anybody would think it was the banking industry.
Whether this is the 2011 equivalent of Parisians going bonkers on absinthe in 1938 or American soldiers taking acid in Vietnam, at least some people are optimistic such as the MD of the company that led the study.
“With many larger businesses cancelling their Christmas party this year, our research appears to show significantly more optimism amongst the smallest business community,” said Darren Fell, Managing Director at Crunch.
I suppose that’s one way of looking at it, but we won’t know until next year. So, in the spirit of the age, let’s just party like it’s, er, 2011.
Monty Munford has more than 15 years' experience in mobile, digital media, web and journalism. He is the founder of Mob76, a company that helps tech companies raise money and exit. He speaks regularly at global media events with a focus on Africa, writes a weekly column for The Telegraph, is a regular contributor to The Economist, Wired, Mashable and speaks regularly on the BBC World Service.
