Latest research shows that employees with smaller firms are likely to be rewarded with more festive treats than workers in larger companies.

Research by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) reveals that many bigger firms fail to organise seasonal fun for employees.

Figures show that 85 per cent of companies with between 49 and 250 workers will pay for their staff to enjoy a Christmas party with only 45 per cent of businesses with over 5,000 employees offering the same privilege.

CIPD's survey shows that three quarters of the UK's smallest companies that employ 50 people or less are likely to hold a festive event, with two-thirds paying all or most of the bill.

Charles Cotton, adviser at the CIPD, said: "Size is certainly something that matters when it comes to Christmas. Smaller firms are far more likely to behave like Santa and dish out presents and parties.

"The good news for smaller employers is that it doesn't matter if you can't always match the financial rewards of the big boys.

"What counts is the total reward offering and the non-financial rewards, such as being a good employer and providing a nice place to work, which are often overlooked by bigger firms," he concluded.




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