Marvin OnumonuJukebox Marketing’s Employee Wellness report found 60% of British workers did not enjoy secret Santa at work.
Employees aged 55 and above were most likely to want out, with 72% saying they disliked it.
Younger workers were more keen, with 51% of those aged 18-27 (Gen Z) ready to take part.
The report found most employees (78%) would rather have a cash bonus than a Christmas party or gift.
Gen X (44-59) were most likely to want a financial reward, at 82%.
In the capital, 69% of workers preferred money over a party, rising to 85% in Wales.
Nearly half (48%) said alcohol was a regular part of work Christmas events.
Younger workers led the way, with 53% agreeing, compared to 46% of Gen X.
Cardiff had the highest share of workers enjoying alcohol at Christmas events, at 68%.
In Norwich, it was just 27%.
Other figures included Brighton at 59%, Edinburgh at 54%, Nottingham at 49%, London at 48% and Leeds at 45%.
Half of employees said they would rather not socialise with colleagues at Christmas.
Gen X and boomers (60-78) were least interested in work socials, at 59% and 60%, respectively.
Gen Z stood out, with 57% happy to join in.
The festive season also brought romance, with 18% of Gen X and 23% of Gen Z saying they had been caught under the mistletoe or had an office kiss.
When it came to money, 34% of Brits struggled to manage finances over Christmas.
In London, 43% of people felt this financial challenge, compared to 25% in Scotland.
Other cities included Birmingham at 40%, Brighton at 35%, Manchester at 34%, Cardiff at 30%, Nottingham at 40% and Leeds at 33%.
Stephen Jury, managing director at Jukebox Marketing, said: “Secret Santa and work parties are often seen as long standing traditions, however, our report found that many employees no longer view them with the same enthusiasm as they once did.
“It’s becoming clear that these once popular traditions are losing their appeal, and employers should look to rethink or update them to better suit the needs and preferences of their employees.
“Our findings also show that some staff are feeling real financial pressure this year.”
Jury added: “Most would prefer a financial reward over parties or gifts, but many people feel they don’t spend enough time with family.
“We also saw a significant number of employees who don’t want to socialise with colleagues at Christmas, which may be due to limited personal time.”
“When you add in the mixed feelings around alcohol at work events and the regional differences in attitudes toward festive reward, it’s clear office Christmas parties need to change.”
He said: “This year is a perfect opportunity for employers to ask staff what they will genuinely appreciate, so the celebration can support them.”
