The New York themed event took place at Evolution London on 10 January 2020. The post-Christmas party was attended by 1,300 industry members who enjoyed entertainment including choreographed routines, dodgem rides and dancing.
Hospitality Action acts as a ‘safety net’ to help those who have fallen on hard times from the hospitality industry, while The Springboard Charity helps to ‘inspire’ unemployed people into rewarding careers in hospitality.
The event raised £10,000 thanks to Smart Group’s guarantee of £5 donated for every ticket sold as well as the attendees’ donations throughout the event.
Mark Lewis chief executive of Hospitality Action, said: “I don’t think anyone knows how to throw a party quite like Smart Group! The festive season can be a real struggle for those who work in hospitality as they sacrifice their own celebrations to give others the perfect Christmas.
“Hospitality Rocks is a great opportunity for the industry to come together, share some good times and raise funds for those in need. Our heartfelt thanks to Smart Group for nominating us to receive the funds raised and I hope the team enjoyed their own Christmas celebrations at the party too.”
The money raised at the fourth annual Hospitality Rocks will be split between Hospitality Action and The Springboard Charity.
Anne Pierce, chief executive at the Springboard Charity, added: “Hospitality Rocks is truly the ultimate Christmas gift to the industry. After making everybody else’s Christmas parties sparkle, the bar and waiting staff, kitchen teams and managers can all come together to enjoy a spectacular evening of fantastic entertainment, food and drinks.
“Hospitality Rocks has such wow factor and the attention to detail is exquisite, which is why people come back year after year. To be adopted as a charity for this event is an honour for Springboard. Thank you, Smart Group, for putting on such a fabulous event and supporting our fundraising efforts, so that we can continue to help people with barriers to employment get jobs in this wonderful industry.”
Next year’s Hospitality Rocks will take place on 8 January 2021. For more information, visit: https://www.smartparties.co.uk/hospitality-rocks/.