Navigating Christmas in the Hospitality Industry: Insights by Cheila Gibbs
The festive season is upon us, and as London prepares to celebrate, the hospitality industry stands at the forefront of creating memorable experiences. In this blog post, Cheila Gibbs, London strategist and advocate for women in business, sheds light on the struggles, positives, and negatives faced by the hospitality sector during the Christmas season.
Current industry landscape:
Reports suggest a promising Christmas for London's pub and bar groups, with bookings surpassing last year and, in some cases, outpacing pre-COVID performances in 2019. UKHospitality estimates a revenue generation of around £4.5 billion during the festive period, though chief executive Kate Nicholls notes this figure falls short of the typical £5 billion in an average year.
Challenges in the industry:
Rail strikes emerge as a potential threat to total hospitality spend in the capital. Larger corporate parties are witnessing decreased demand, attributed to tighter budgets and the lingering uncertainty surrounding rail strikes. However, on a brighter note, smaller groups are leading the growth, showing high demand for Christmas nights out and brunch tickets.
Hot spots for Christmas celebrations:
1. Barbican Conservatory - A Carnival Celebration:
• Experience a carnival-inspired celebration at Barbican Conservatory, known for its sustainable office Christmas party venues. The venue transforms into a garden party with street food stalls, secluded gardens, tropical fish ponds, and Latin beats. Christmas packages include welcome cocktails, a DJ, unlimited drinks, carnival snacks, and food stations.
2. Museum of London - 17th Century Pleasure Gardens:
• Explore the 17th Century pleasure gardens at the Museum of London, where the event spaces provide a dramatic backdrop for festive celebrations. This year, the Museum invites partygoers to explore London's history, enjoy drinks in the entrance hall bar, wander through historical exhibits, and indulge in unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks during dinner in the Sackler Hall.
3. The Curling Club - Unique Festive Fun:
• Enter The Curling Club, a unique venue offering casual curling—an Olympic sport filled with laughs and drinks. Choose from packages like 'Curls of Wisdom,' which includes welcome drinks, a dedicated curling sheet, food, an hour of curling, and a three-hour table reservation.
4. Coppa Club Tower Bridge Igloos - Iconic Festive Views:
• Discover the iconic igloos at Coppa Club Tower Bridge, offering breathtaking views of Tower Bridge. Seasonally adorned, these igloos are a festive spot for a glass of fizz, a cocktail, or a three-course Christmas dinner.
5. Mayfair 34 - Opulent Elegance in Mayfair:
• Celebrate the magic of Christmas at Mayfair 34, where 14,000 decorations set the mood in this high-end eatery. Located just a stone's throw away from Berkeley Square, 34 Mayfair is a hidden gem offering a steak-heavy menu amidst opulent surroundings.
6. Balthazar - French Elegance in Covent Garden:
• Indulge in classic French bistro dishes in the chic environment of Balthazar, located in Covent Garden. With superb decorations, this eatery promises a touch of French elegance to your Christmas celebrations.
7. Old Compton Brasserie - A Soho Christmas Delight:
• Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Old Compton Brasserie, a charming restaurant in Soho. Enjoy a modern menu, an impressive cocktail list, and a renowned vibrant atmosphere as you have a Soho Christmas.
As we navigate the complexities of the hospitality industry during the holidays, Cheila Gibbs encourages Londoners to cherish the unique experiences offered by these hot spots. Celebrate the season, connect with friends, and indulge in healthy Italian food, fostering the spirit of togetherness and joy.
Explore more about Cheila Gibbs and her insights on women empowerment and business at Cheila Gibbs.
