For many individuals, this means opting out of traditional office happy hours and post-work socializing with colleagues. Instead of heading for a drink with coworkers after signing off, people are rushing home to spend time with their pandemic pets-turned-beloved companions or to prepare meals in the comfort of their homes. “I feel like that kind of made us take a step back and be like, ‘Do I really want to spend this much time with my co-workers after work?’” shared a pedestrian in New York City with FOX Business. Liquor magnate James Morrissey sheds light on the success of his tequila brand with Kevin Hart, emphasizing the importance of being business partners first. Corporate event organizers report an increase in the “flake-out rate,” with work-related gatherings after hours or on weekends experiencing a decline.
Workers and employers attribute the decline in participation to pandemic-influenced behaviors like pet ownership and remote work, coupled with a general waning of interest. A popular happy hour venue in Midtown, the corporate hub of Manhattan, informed FOX Business of reduced corporate foot traffic. Sean Reilly, proprietor of Sean’s Bar and Kitchen, noted a shift in attire, with fewer Brooks Brothers shirts and a trend towards more casual clothing, underscoring the transformation in work dynamics. Additionally, the timeframe for happy hours has contracted. “Typically, happy hours lasted later pre-pandemic,” mentioned Sean Reilly to FOX Business. “Now they’re basically 5 to 6:30, so a lot shorter than they used to be.”
Prior to the pandemic, employees usually extended their presence until 8:30 p.m. Interestingly, Thursdays have now emerged as the preferred day for these gatherings. NON-ALCOHOLIC BEER, WINE, AND SPIRITS SALES ON THE RISE IN THE US “Friday gatherings have decreased as people prefer commencing their weekends much earlier than before,” noted Reilly. He further highlighted that the rise in remote work has played a role in this transition from Fridays to Thursdays, given that a significant number of employees work remotely on Fridays.
Across the U.S., reservations for dinner have shifted to earlier times. Data from Circana indicates that 26% of post-work restaurant dinners now occur before 6 p.m. this year, compared to just 21% in 2019. Additionally, dinner reservations saw a 43% decrease last year compared to 2019. Despite more employees choosing to forgo post-work gatherings, enthusiasts of happy hour have emphasized the benefits of socializing with colleagues. “I’m a big fan of happy hour,” stated a New York City worker. “As long as the company is covering the bill, there’s no reason not to participate.” Another worker from New York City emphasized the significance of mingling with colleagues outside of the office for professional development. “It’s a good way for young professionals to engage with their supervisors and learn more from them,” they explained.