Each week Bristol Business News gives a prominent member of the city’s business community the last word on our weekly e-bulletin.
This week Santa Claus, aka Father Christmas, founder and CEO of Ho-Ho-Ho Enterprises, answers our 10 questions.
What was the LAST:
Film you watched? I don’t get much time for films but I like anything with me in it. I did watch Bad Santa recently – Billy Bob Thornton had me down to a T.
Book you read? Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas always comes off the shelf this time of year. Am I really that grumpy? But in my job I get to have a quick read of just about every book when they arrive to be wrapped as presents.
Music you bought or downloaded? Phil Spector’s A Christmas Gift for You will be blasting from the sleigh’s stereo 8-track this Christmas Eve. The Ronettes’ version of I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus is a particular favourite.
Concert or play you went to? I’m a bit busy this time of year for plays or concerts, but I did pop over to West End to see The Snowman on stage. I was in that too!
Sporting event you attended? It’s a bit cold for most sports in Lapland. We do put on reindeer races – Rudolph usually wins by a nose.
Holiday you went on? I travel a lot in my job – in fact I go everywhere in the world on Christmas Eve – so holidays aren’t that big a deal.
Restaurant you ate in? I only eat in pizza restaurants. How do I like my pizzas? Deep pan, crisp and even.
Thing that annoyed you? When people accuse me of only working one day a year. My grotto is a fully-integrated 365-days-a-year operation with the latest automated pick-and-pack technology. I also have a lot of little helpers. But I do check every list twice.
Thing that made you laugh out loud? That joke about why the fairy is on top of the Christmas tree – ho ho ho.
Piece of good advice you were given? Never leave them wanting more.
Santa Claus has been CEO of Ho-Ho-Ho Enterprises for as long as anyone can remember. A familiar figure in his red suit and black boots, and with his long white beard, he has become a global icon, acknowledged entrepreneur and ambassador for branded cola. Santa Claus is available for after-dinner speeches and motivational talks.