The amount who are having one — or serving cocktails — is declining.
An annual survey that gauges the extent of companies’ holiday celebrations found the number of employers that have held parties previously but won’t be hosting one this year has risen from 4 percent in 2016 to 11 percent — the highest percentage since 2010.
The numerous reports of inappropriate sexual contact occurring in the workplace that have surfaced in recent months may be prompting organizations to scale back on their holiday party plans, according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc., which conducts the survey.
In addition, fewer holiday parties will involve alcohol. The number of employers who plan to serve it has declined from 62 percent in 2016 to 48 percent. Last year’s total was the highest percentage of companies serving alcohol since Challenger, Gray & Christmas began its annual survey in 2007.
For more on the office holiday party trends the company uncovered, view this information about its findings.