New Year’s Eve celebrations could boost the UK hospitality by £505 MILLION, finds PPL PRS survey

So, how can venues attract people at home and passers-by while retaining custom? The top priority for almost two-thirds (64%) of New Year’s Eve partygoers is atmosphere. Creating an enjoyable vibe enhances customer experience. Teams may also feel happier and more motivated, which can be a struggle if working on your feet for a long time.

 Customers are most likely to be deterred by a rowdy crowd (46%) followed by expensiveness (44%) and unhospitable or rude staff (37%).

Those surveyed also reiterated that lack of atmosphere (32%) and no music playing (25%) could spur them to exit. 

Over a third (38%) want to hear music while seeing in the new year, be it a live performance or toe-tapping playlist. Putting classic New Year’s songs with a mix of modern party anthems can help you keep a pumping atmosphere all night long.

Marianne Rizkallah, music therapist for PPL PRS, comments:

“The atmosphere in a pub or bar can really make or break a celebratory night like New Year’s Eve. It plays a key role in balancing the moods across the room. If an atmosphere becomes too intense, it risks riling up a crowd and / or causing people to leave.

 “There are many benefits to playing music. When choosing tunes that heightens excitement, look at those with Beats Per Minute (BPM) that are slightly faster than the average heart rate. Plus, rises and falls that build anticipation (like when you’re waiting for the drop in an EDM track). Play at a moderate to loud volume for optimal effect.

“Familiar music promotes a sense of community that will help cohere a crowd around a moment. A classic example is of course ‘Auld Lang Syne’ – we anticipate this after the chime of midnight which can send serotonin (or happy hormones) soaring. The act of linking arms and singing together can be a hugely bonding experience. Following up with popular party anthems will help punters sustain these positive emotions so they leave your venue with a fantastic lasting impression with a view to returning for more.”

Along with access to drinks (39%), punters prioritise food (30%) followed by cheap entrance (26%). With ‘cost’ a reason that people would prefer to party at home, over half (52%) of respondents staying in to celebrate have called this out. Running promotions like free entry until 11 pm or a two-for-one drink offer could coax revellers in and keep them entertained.

If you’re a business owner looking to host New Year’s Eve celebrations, ensure you’re correctly licensed with TheMusicLicence.