Keep it personal
The best leaving parties are about the person. Ask what they’d enjoy: a quiet lunch, a garden party, or a big send-off with the whole team.
Food ideas
- A fish and chip van in the car park, for everyone on site
- A buffet lunch in the office
- Evening drinks with hot food served later
A van works especially well for long-serving staff in warehouses, depots and workshops, where a staff lunch outside is easier than a meal out.
Speeches and timing
Do the speeches after people have eaten, while everyone is still there. Keep them short.
Gifts and memories
- A card or book of messages from colleagues
- Old photos from their time at the company
- A collection for a gift or charity of their choice
For long-serving staff
When someone has worked somewhere for decades, the send-off matters. Invite former colleagues and family if appropriate, and gather stories in advance for a short speech. A meal that everyone on site can share, such as a fish and chip lunch, includes people who can’t leave their posts for a meal out.
Planning around the workday
If the party is during working hours, plan it around breaks and shifts so everyone can drop in. A van that serves through a set window lets people come and go without disrupting the day.
Keeping it light
Not everyone likes a fuss. Ask the person what they’d like: some prefer a quiet lunch with their team; others want a party. Either way, good food and a few kind words are what people remember.
A card and a collection
A card signed by everyone is still one of the most valued leaving gifts. Pass it round quietly in good time, and include former colleagues if you can reach them. If you’re collecting for a gift, let people give privately, without pressure.
Quick answers
Can a chip van come to our workplace for a leaving do?
Yes, with a level spot and the site’s agreement.
When should we do speeches?
After food, while everyone’s still together.
Planning an event? Tell us about it and we’ll check the date and send a quote.