Caterers' phones are ringing. In one of the clearest signs yet that the economy is improving, nearly 90 percent of human resources professionals say that their companies plan to throw holiday or year-end parties, according to the L.A. Times, and about 60 percent will use a caterer, event planner or outside service:
The improving economy appears to have everyone in a party mood. Consumers are more confident about the economy and plan to spend 22% more on entertaining at home this holiday season for an average of $194, according to a survey of holiday shopping plans by consulting firm Deloitte. Employers also are more willing to bring out the appetizer trays and don their party hats than in previous years, according to a December survey by Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc., a global outplacement firm. – Los Angeles Times
