Most Poles will ring in the New Year at home or in the company of close family and friends, with 66% opting to celebrate solely with household members and an additional 21% planning gatherings with family or friends, according to a survey commissioned by the Register of Debtors BIG InfoMonitor. These trends mirror those observed from 2021 to 2023, underscoring a growing preference for at-home celebrations amid economic uncertainty. The survey, titled “The New Year’s Eve Plans of Poles,” revealed that the average planned spending for the holiday stands at PLN 268, comparable to last year. However, 20% of respondents intend to avoid any additional expenses altogether, highlighting a broader inclination toward saving. Of those planning to spend, 29% budget over PLN 200, while the remainder allocate even less. “Inflation directly influences New Year’s Eve spending decisions. One in four Poles (24%) plans to spend less than last year, while 63% expect their expenses to remain stable. Only 13% anticipate higher spending, reflecting a cautious approach to financial management,” the report stated. The study also found that extravagant celebrations have fallen out of favor. Only 4% of respondents plan to attend events at venues, cultural institutions, or outdoor festivities, and an equal proportion intends to travel. These figures highlight a shift toward more personal and cost-conscious ways of celebrating the end of the year. This trend poses challenges for sectors like hospitality, entertainment, and gastronomy, which traditionally rely on New Year’s Eve events for substantial revenue. According to data from BIG InfoMonitor and the credit reference bureau BIK, these industries are grappling with financial difficulties. Overdue liabilities in the HoReCa sector (hospitality and catering services) have risen by PLN 151 million (7.7%) this year, exceeding PLN 2 billion by October 2024. The food services segment alone has seen unpaid debts surge by nearly PLN 195 million (22%), reaching over PLN 1 billion. “The continued preference for intimate New Year’s celebrations reflects a broader lifestyle shift among Poles toward saving and minimalism,” said Waldemar Rogowski, Chief Analyst at BIG InfoMonitor. “This trend, driven by both financial constraints and a desire for comfort and closeness, presents a significant challenge for the entertainment and gastronomy industries. Adapting to these new preferences by offering flexible, economical, and personalized services could help mitigate long-term impacts.” The survey, conducted using the CAWI method by Quality Watch on behalf of BIG InfoMonitor, sampled 1,061 Poles aged 18 and older in December 2024. Source: BIG InfoMonitor and CTK