Last of the big spenders
But the last survey by the Chartered Management Institute found that only 42 per cent of firms said they were making any contribution to funding parties, compared with 72 per cent in 2006. Prior to that, companies such as Honda were known to spend 100,000 for a three-course meal and drinks for staff.
London ad agency Saatchi & Saatchi once turned its car park into a funfair which included ferris wheels and merry-go-rounds in a Christmas bash that cost 80k.
City brokers Intercapital hosted a Christmas party at London's Gibson hall, which was decked out in the grand Russian imperial style with a lavish Russian feast.