The Rise of Zero-Travel Year-End Parties with New Catering Culture

The Evolution of Year-End Parties: Welcome to Zero-Travel Celebrations

In recent years, the traditional year-end parties, known as 'Bonenkai' in Japan, have undergone a transformation. Instead of the usual gatherings requiring travel to restaurants, companies are now embracing the idea of celebrating in their own offices. This shift is particularly evident in the rising demand for catered platters from companies like 2ndTable, which has experienced an astounding 400% increase in corporate orders by November 2025. This trend speaks volumes about the changing work culture and the growing desire for efficient and enjoyable workplace interactions.

The Shift Towards Efficient Corporate Gatherings

The pandemic has changed how we view workplace socialization. Moving away from lengthy travels to restaurants, many companies prioritize time efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This new approach highlights the importance of fostering workplace relationships while minimizing the time and expense associated with traditional gatherings.

A recent survey conducted by MixTrend found that 80.4% of employees expressed their intention to participate in their workplace's year-end gatherings. Despite this eagerness, traditional parties present challenges, such as travel time and logistical constraints. The concept of 'zero-travel parties' effectively addresses these hurdles, facilitating greater interaction among employees and cultivating a sense of community.

Benefits of Office-Based Celebrations

The advantages of hosting gatherings in the office are significant. Surveys indicate that the primary benefits include reduced travel time and lower overall costs. The ability to hold gatherings in familiar environments fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, encouraging open communication and collaboration among team members.

By eliminating travel, employees can dedicate more time to socializing rather than commuting, thereby increasing overall engagement. Additionally, these gatherings can be adjusted flexibly to accommodate department schedules, enhancing participation rates.

Why Choose Zero-Travel Year-End Parties?

1. Creating Time and Economic Efficiency

By eliminating unnecessary travel and expenses, these parties can start right after work hours, allowing for a seamless transition from work to celebration. Flexible scheduling options mean that teams can gather without being constrained by preset times.

2. Psychological Safety of Teams

Hosting events in a relaxed, familiar office setting boosts comfort levels among employees. After the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, reconnections within teams are crucial for enhancing psychological safety and engagement. An inclusive environment encourages employees to express themselves freely.

3. Streamlining Preparations

Organizing a gathering no longer entails the risks and time associated with venue selection, reservations, and payments. With catered services, organizers can simply place an order and have delicious meals delivered to the chosen location on time.

The Experience of Catered Platters

One of the standout features of 2ndTable's offerings is their use of heating containers for delivered food. This means employees can enjoy warm dishes that encourage interactions a lot more naturally. Shared meals tend to foster deeper connections and create enjoyable team-building moments, even in short gatherings held in everyday environments like meeting rooms.

Why 2ndTable Stands Out

2ndTable focuses on providing effective and satisfying dining experiences tailored to the demands of modern gatherings. Here are some reasons why companies are opting for their services:

- Diverse Menu: With over 100 dishes, options cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan and halal.
- Gourmet Flavor: The involvement of chefs from top hotels ensures a touch of elegance to every event.
- Easy Serving: The food is delivered preset, making it easy for attendees to serve themselves without fuss.
- Quick Ordering: Orders can be placed until two days before the event, adding convenience for planners.
- Centralized Ordering for Multiple Locations: Companies can manage orders for several locations, minimizing the load on event planners regardless of the size of the gathering.

Looking Ahead

As the traditional landscape of corporate celebrations continues to evolve, 2ndTable is committed to adapting its offerings. The company is poised to expand its reach and enhance its menu, ensuring that clients remain satisfied. For those contemplating catering for their events, reaching out to 2ndTable may be a step toward a successful gathering.

For more details about their offerings or to place an order, visit 2ndTable's official website or reach out through their contact channels.

About 2ndTable Company

- Name: 2ndTable, Inc.
- Headquarters:

- Kanto: 5th Floor, Akasaka Imoko Building, 7-1, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Kansai: 1-31 Nishinomiya-hama, Nishinomiya, Hyogo
- Kyushu: 2-10-32 Nagazumi, Minami-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka