No “plus-one.” Charging $60 at the door. A box of Franzia after work.
Welcome to the holiday office party, 2009 recession style — if you’re even having one, that is.
After a year of layoffs, firm shutterings and a 10 percent unemployment rate, it’s no wonder nobody feels like celebrating much this Christmas. There was a drop in holiday parties last year in NYC, and this year even more so, said Andrew Rigie of the New York State Nightlife Association.
“Instead of a sitdown dinner, people will now just do a cocktail party,” said Rigie. “And if they do a full dinner, the company will pay for just the happy hour, not a full bar throughout.”
At Marc Forgione, a Michelen-star rated restaurant in TriBeCa, companies used to rent out the entire restaurant for Christmas or Hanukkah dinners.
This year, it’s seen small groups of six out together or — gasp — an executive-only dinner.
More affordable party spots like Brother Jimmy’s are reaping in the business as cheaper alternatives.
