UK (6th December 2024) - This Christmas, Co-op is taking the guesswork out of festive celebrations by sharing "The Occasion Equation," - a formula rooted in data, designed to help Brits create the ultimate Christmas party.

The leading convenience retailer has partnered with Dr Harriet Baird, Social Psychologist from the University of Sheffield, to review a new survey of 2000 UK adults which uncovered the nation's party preferences and anxieties, with the data exploring everything from the ideal playlist and must-have snacks to the biggest party fails and most cherished traditions . From this, Dr Baird has devised the perfect Christmas party formula.

The research shows that more than a third of Brits (37%) are ditching cooking canapes from scratch this Christmas, opting for the convenience of pre-prepared party food, while classic mince pies take the crown (29%) as the must-have food to serve at a Christmas party.

Almost everyone surveyed (over 90%) believes showing up to a party without a gift is a major faux pas. While nearly half of Brits (44%) see a bottle of wine as the ultimate gift for a host, more than a quarter (26%) believe party food is the best way to win over the hearts (and stomachs) of their fellow guests.

House parties are the overwhelming favourite (43%), while office parties and online gatherings are the least popular, garnering only 5% and 4% of the vote, respectively.

However, the biggest revelation is that 44% of Brits confess that kids are the biggest party poopers at Christmas gatherings. So, if you're dreaming of a stress-free soiree, consider making it a grown-up affair.

We understand that Christmas can be a whirlwind of social gatherings, and sometimes, knowing exactly what to do to keep everyone happy can feel a bit overwhelming, explains Nicole Tallant, Head of Brand, Co-op. This year, we believe more people are opting for smaller, more frequent get-togethers throughout the festive season, which is why we created The Occasion Equation. It’s our way of taking the guesswork out of party planning and helping everyone – especially those juggling busy lives – host memorable, good fun celebrations without the stress. We’ve cracked the code, so you can focus on enjoying delicious food and festive fun with loved ones.”

TV host Craig Doyle, who is planning on hosting a Christmas party for friends and family, brings his own festive flair to the campaign, offering practical tips and inspiration for putting the equation into practice.

Craig Doyle adds: “Christmas is all about celebrating with the people you love, not spending hours fretting over planning and prepping. Co-op’s Occasion Equation takes the hassle out of planning, so you can focus on what really matters – enjoying good company, great food, and maybe even a cheeky mince pie (or two!).”

Co-op, with its wide range of delicious party food and drinks, is the perfect one-stop shop for all your festive needs. Party favourite treats such as prawn toast tacos, mini carbonara croquettes and katsu bites are packed full of indulgent flavours with quality ingredients. So, ditch the stress, embrace the pre-made goodies, and get ready to host a Christmas party that everyone will remember.

For more information on the Co-op Christmas food range, visit https://www.coop.co.uk/products/christmas

Editor Notes

According to the research, follow these top 9 rules for the perfect Christmas party:

1. Stock up on the must-have foods: Mince pies (29%), Pigs in Blankets (26%) and Sausage Rolls (24%).

2. Ensure you have the right amount of canapes: Plan for 4 canapés per person.

3. Settle on the right location: 42% of respondents across all age groups agree that hosting a party in someone’s home is the best.

4. Don’t underestimate your festive spirit: A host who is full of festive spirit is sure to win round the crowds with 43% agreeing.

5. Offer a variety of drinks to cater to everyone: Guests expect beer (31%), prosecco (25%), mulled wine (22%) and wine (20%)

6. Ensure you have allocated 5 alcoholic drinks per person and 3 – 4 non-alcoholic options.

7. Get the date right: Don’t peak too early and plan your gathering for Saturday 21st December.

8. Get the time right: 6.30pm is the most popular time to start a party, serving drinks from 7pm followed by appetisers at 7.30pm and the main food / buffet at 8.00pm. The party should have ended by midnight.

9. Don’t arrive empty-handed: Bring a bottle of wine for your host but leave the kids at home.

5 food pitfalls to avoid for a flawless party:

1. Dry or bland foods

2. Overcooked food

3. Lack of variety

4. Complicated/hard-to-eat finger foods

5. Overly rich or heavy foods

4 drink-related disasters to avoid at your next party:

1. Not Enough Drinks

2. Dirty Glassware

3. Warm Drinks

4. No Ice

4 Too Much Drinking

Media Enquiries:

karen.murphy@halpern.co.uk

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