Staff Christmas parties across the UK are generating more than 1.5 million kg of food waste each year, according to new analysis by BusinessWaste.co.uk. That is roughly equivalent to the weight of 1,500 small cars.
On average, each company party produces 14.26kg of wasted food. When applied across an estimated 1,416,855 UK businesses, total waste reaches 1,506,847kg annually.
The financial cost is equally striking. Businesses lose an average of £1,097 each year to food wasted at Christmas events, adding up to £115,839,720 across the UK.
Micro businesses waste around £37.50 per year, while small firms lose £225. Medium-sized companies see losses of £1,125 and large organisations waste as much as £3,000 annually.
Beyond cost, the environmental impact is substantial. The wasted food generates an estimated 2,531.50 tonnes of CO2e, comparable to charging 1,361,000 smartphones for a year.
The figures were calculated using portion size guidance and industry data suggesting at least 15% of food at catered events is thrown away. The analysis also accounts for the proportion of companies that actually host Christmas parties.
Mark Hall, food waste expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk, said: “Every year, millions of businesses across the UK bring their staff together to celebrate at Christmas. However, many don’t realise the scale of waste created at catered events, and don’t comprehend that this waste also comes with a cost.”
He added: “With exact figures impossible to obtain, the calculation we have provided does rely on some clearly defined assumptions, but we believe it’s a fair illustration of the potential scale of food waste generated.”
BusinessWaste.co.uk says waste can be reduced through simpler menus, plated meals instead of buffets and pre-ordering food. Partnering with charities to donate surplus food can also help cut waste during the festive season.
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