Co-op’s “Occasion Equation” Cracks the Code for the Ultimate Christmas Party

Co-op’s “Occasion Equation” Cracks the Code for the Ultimate Christmas Party

(IN BRIEF) Co-op has introduced “The Occasion Equation,” a data-driven formula developed with social psychologist Dr. Harriet Baird, to help Brits host stress-free Christmas parties. Based on a survey of 2,000 UK adults, the research highlights that 37% prefer pre-made party food over cooking from scratch, with mince pies, pigs in blankets, and sausage rolls topping the festive buffet favorites. House parties are the top choice (43%), while kids are seen as the biggest party disruptors (44%), making adult-only gatherings more appealing. Gift-giving etiquette is key, with over 90% agreeing that arriving empty-handed is a faux pas, and a bottle of wine is the most popular host gift (44%). Co-op’s festive food range, featuring indulgent bites like prawn toast tacos and katsu croquettes, ensures hosting is hassle-free. TV personality Craig Doyle adds his flair, encouraging hosts to focus on enjoying the season with loved ones. For more on Co-op’s Christmas offerings, visit their website.

(PRESS RELEASE) MANCHESTER, 6-Dec-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Christmas celebrations just got simpler! Co-op, a British consumer co-operative with a group of retail businesses including food retail and wholesale, insurance, legal services, and funerals, is unveiling “The Occasion Equation,” a data-driven formula designed to guide Brits in hosting the perfect festive gathering. Developed in collaboration with Dr. Harriet Baird, a Social Psychologist from the University of Sheffield, the formula is rooted in insights from a survey of 2,000 UK adults, revealing what makes – and breaks – a Christmas party.

The survey uncovered key trends shaping this year’s festive gatherings. Over a third (37%) of respondents are opting for the convenience of pre-made party food instead of cooking from scratch. Traditional favorites like mince pies, pigs in blankets, sausage rolls, and crisps remain the stars of the buffet table, with mince pies topping the must-have list (29%).

House parties emerged as the nation’s favorite setting, with 43% preferring to celebrate in the comfort of someone’s home. Meanwhile, online gatherings and office parties lagged far behind in popularity, capturing only 4% and 5% of the vote, respectively.

Gift-giving was another key theme, with more than 90% of Brits agreeing that showing up empty-handed is a major faux pas. A bottle of wine (44%) reigns as the ultimate party entry pass, while 26% believe bringing party food is the way to impress fellow guests.

However, not everything is merry and bright. A significant 44% of respondents admitted that young children are the biggest party disruptors. For those seeking a smoother celebration, a grown-ups-only guest list might be the way to go.

Nicole Tallant, Head of Brand at Co-op, explained the rationale behind the campaign:
“We know the festive season can be overwhelming, especially with so many social gatherings to organize. That’s why we created ‘The Occasion Equation’ – a simple way to make party planning stress-free and fun. By offering everything from delicious party foods to hosting tips, we’re helping people focus on what really matters: enjoying the festivities with loved ones.”

Television personality Craig Doyle, who is hosting his own Christmas party this year, is lending his voice to the campaign. He shared his enthusiasm:
“Christmas is about spending time with those you love, not stressing over the details. Co-op’s formula takes the guesswork out of planning, letting you relax and enjoy great food, great company, and maybe a mince pie or two!”

Co-op’s festive food range, featuring indulgent treats like prawn toast tacos, mini carbonara croquettes, and katsu bites, ensures every host can serve up a feast to remember. With quality ingredients and an array of options, the retailer offers everything needed for a party that’s as effortless as it is unforgettable.

For more details on Co-op’s Christmas food collection, visit www.coop.co.uk/products/christmas.

Top Tips for Festive Success
To plan the ultimate Christmas party, keep these essentials in mind:

• Buffet Essentials: Stock up on classics like mince pies (29%), pigs in blankets (26%), and sausage rolls (24%).
• Perfect Portions: Plan for four canapés per guest.
• Ideal Venue: Nearly half (43%) believe a home setting is the best party location.
• Festive Hosting: Bring the holiday cheer – 43% say a host’s enthusiasm makes all the difference.
• Drink Variety: Offer beer (31%), prosecco (25%), mulled wine (22%), and wine (20%).

Pitfalls to Avoid:

• Food Fails: Avoid dry, bland, overcooked, or overly heavy dishes.
• Drink Disasters: Don’t run out of drinks, serve them warm, or neglect ice and clean glassware.

Make this Christmas one to remember – minus the stress!

Media Enquiries:
pressoffice@coop.co.uk
karen.murphy@halpern.co.uk

About Co-op
Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance and legal services. Owned by millions of UK consumers, the Co-op operates almost 2,400 food stores, over 800 funeral homes and provides products to over 5,000 other stores, including those run by independent co-operative societies and through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited. Employing 56,000 people, the Co-op has an annual turnover of over £11billion and is a recognised leader for its social goals and community-led programmes. The Co-op exists to meet members’ needs and stand up for the things they believe in.

SOURCE: Co-operative Group Limited