A recent study reveals that a majority of UK workers prefers alcohol-free workplace social events, indicating a shift toward more inclusive workplace gatherings. According to the research, workers feel that alcohol-focused events often exclude those who do not consume alcohol, either by choice or due to health and personal reasons. Many employees expressed that alcohol-free events foster better networking and communication, as everyone can participate fully without feeling pressured to consume alcohol. This trend aligns with the growing “sober curious” movement, where individuals explore socializing liberated from alcohol to prioritize wellness and mental clarity.
The survey and its key findings
“The Power of Socialisation” survey explores the attitudes of today’s employees and future workers. With its findings it sets out the ideal environment for socialising in the workplace to create a sense of belonging and productivity.
The survey was commissioned by food services provider and catering company Compass and conducted by global market intelligence agency Mintel. Overall Mintel polled more than 30,000 workers and students in 21 countries. It found that encouraging sociable moments helps staff look forward to going to work and signals a company’s commitment to inclusivity, wellbeing and career progression, according to Facilitate Magazine:
- 27% of employees say they feel lonely or isolated at work;
- 83% say their workplace is an enjoyable space to be in and are happy at work. But happiness falls to just 22% if the environment is not right; and
- 45% of hybrid workers say they would come into their place of work more often if there were more opportunities to socialise with colleagues.
Findings signal end of alcohol-centric workplace events
Alcohol is no longer a focal point at employee events; a sentiment shared across generations.”
“The Power of Socialization” by the Compass Group
Facilitate Magazine also reports findings that illustrate changing preferences of today’s employees and future workers concerning the outdated alcohol norm in workplaces. The survey signals the end of the alcohol-centric workplace event and a move to more inclusive, experience-led events. Workplace friendships strengthen wellbeing and loneliness leads to employees taking twice as many sick days, posing as much of a mortality risk as smoking, alcohol consumption and physical inactivity.
- More than 75% of employees say they do not want alcohol at workplace get-togethers,
- 49% of students say having non-alcoholic beverages is a way of being inclusive, and
- 39% say they would like ways to socialise with colleagues that don’t involve alcohol.
The research sheds light on shifting preferences among employees worldwide, indicating a growing trend toward inclusive events that accommodate everyone who want to stay alcohol-free.
Why it matters for employers to provide alcohol-free, inclusive workplace events focused on socializing
Employees don’t want forced fun, but moments that connect people, and organised events that connect workers to their company.
The study suggests that companies offering a mix of alcohol-free events could improve team dynamics and inclusivity, especially as workplace cultures become more aware of diverse ways of life and well-being initiatives.
“The days of the traditional after-work office party centred around alcohol are over are over”
Compass Group
This matters in a post-pandemic work environment where about 38% of employees feel less loyal to their employer than before the pandemic. The number rises to 51% among Gen Z and 45% of millennials. In the era of ‘quiet quitting’, ensuring workplaces are sociable environments in which views are shared and engagement, collaboration and creativity can grow is key for employers to attract and retain talent and foster productivity.
Alcohol is identified as being a hinder for such workplace features.
Sociable moments can ignite productivity and attract future leaders.
Well-designed, multipurpose social spaces must provide well-being, fun, relaxation and revitalisation. Such workplace event boost productivity and encourage employees to come into the office. About 60% of respondents feel that it is important there are social and recreational facilities at work, with 21% considering it very important, according to Facilitate Magazine.
The survey finds that uninspiring social areas – such that are dominated by the outdated alcohol norm – create disconnected employees.
Country-specific findings: United Kingdom
The Financial Times reported on the survey results for the United Kingdom (UK). The survey revealed only a minority of employees – less than a quarter – see alcohol as an essential part of work socials, with many expressing a preference for activities that don’t center around alcohol. Younger workers, particularly those aged 16 to 34, are even more likely to favor alcohol-free options.
Companies are responding by offering fresh, new, and more inclusive ways of socializing in work-related events, such as escape rooms, outdoor activities, and team-building exercises to create a safer, healthier environments and to avoid issues like lost productivity and potential liabilities related to alcohol use at work events.
- Only around 1 in 4 UK employees express a preference for alcohol to be present at workplace social events.
- 76% of workers in the UK indicated that they would like to see work-related gatherings to be liberated from alcohol, underscoring a notable shift in workplace culture concerning alcohol.
According to Financial Times reporting, Compass Group commented on the survey finding by explaining that the days of the traditional after-work office party centred around alcohol were over. They also said students’ responses showed immersive and inclusive events were key to attracting future employees.
What it all means
The holiday season, particularly Christmas, is a crucial revenue period for the hospitality industry, including Compass Group. Traditionally a time of alcohol-focused office parties, this season now sees a shift as more businesses request alcohol-free, activity-based events for their end-of-year gatherings. Companies specializing in office party planning report an increased demand for events that focus on interactive activities, team-building exercises, or other forms of entertainment that are liberated from the alcohol focus. Additionally, these parties are often scheduled during work hours, promoting inclusivity and making it easier for employees to balance festive celebrations with personal time. This trend highlights a growing shift toward mindful socializing, reflecting broader changes in workplace culture.
Restaurant Associates, a subsidiary of Compass Group specializing in catering for events and office parties, has observed a significant shift in beverage preferences since the pandemic, acording to the Financial Times. Demand for non-alcoholic drinks has surged, increasing by at least 50% compared to pre-pandemic levels. This trend reflects a broader change in social and corporate events, where attendees increasingly prefer alcohol-free options, aligning with the growing popularity of being sober curious, going alcohol-free, and health-conscious ways of life.
In today’s workplace, social events are increasingly shifting focus from traditional activities centered around alcohol to experiences that foster connection and collaboration among colleagues. More employees are valuing opportunities to socialize meaningfully, emphasizing conversations that strengthen relationships and build trust. Events are now crafted to enhance the team culture, promoting a sense of belonging and unity through engaging activities that encourage interaction. This change is driven by a desire to create experiences that prioritize speaking to colleagues in a comfortable, inclusive environment, ultimately supporting a more connected and productive workplace culture.
The workplace alcohol norm is rapidly being replaced by healthier, more inclusive social norms, reflecting a broader societal shift in people’s preferences and the perception of what really matters in social events. As employees increasingly favor alcohol-free social events, there is a growing need to challenge the narratives promoted by the alcohol industry, which have long influenced social expectations. Re-evaluating these assumptions can support healthier work environments and benefit policy initiatives aimed at improving employee well-being. Conducting more social norming activities can help visualize and meet the real needs of employees, fostering inclusive and engaging experiences that prioritize connection and team-building.
Sources
Download the PDF report: “The Power of Socialization” by Compass Group
Facilitate Magazine: “Compass Study Shows the Sociable Workplace Is Key to Happiness and Productivity“
Financial Times: “Fewer than a quarter of UK workers want alcohol at social events, study finds“