Corporate Holiday Gifting Done Right
Originally published on September 12, 2023. Updated on September 11, 2024.
For many organizations, the end of the year brings a corporate gifting opportunity for employees, customers, and clients alike. Just as with personal holiday shopping, corporate holiday shopping can be stressful, time consuming, and expensive. That’s where we come in.
Working with the experts on M&IW’s Flow Gifting & Engagement Team saves you time, money, and stress. With years of gifting experience and industry knowledge, we partner with you to curate gifts and experiences guaranteed to dazzle and delight your recipients. Whether you want to express gratitude, send warm regards, or simply spread goodwill and cheer, holiday and end-of-year gifts can strengthen relationships, spark conversations, and show appreciation. Here are best practices and current trends to help you make the most of this annual tradition.
The Best Time to Order and Give Holiday Gifts
Ready or not, 2024 is almost over. That means the end-of-year celebrations are fast approaching. The earlier, the better when it comes to placing your orders for your corporate holiday gifts and year-end recognition. Popular items sell out quickly, especially at the end of the year.
A recent study revealed the supply chain slowdowns and uncertainties have continued in 2024. By shopping early, you have greater product availability and more time to explore your options. You will also avoid rush shipping fees and other charges. We recommend placing your orders by the end of October at the latest. There are still last-minute gifting opportunities available in November and beyond, but choices will be more limited.
The best timing for holiday gifting isn’t only about when to order items but also when to distribute them. Thanksgiving is an underrated—and under-utilized—time for gift-giving. The holiday is all about expressing gratitude, so why not capitalize on that sentiment?
Recipients are often unsuspecting and therefore more surprised and appreciative of the gesture. It also ensures items are delivered before the exodus of holiday vacations.
Gifting Budget Considerations
It’s important to understand your budget before starting your search. Remember that your budget is influenced by your list of recipients. Corporate gifts often receive a bulk discount, so the more you buy, the more you save per item and therefore per person.
Many holiday and end-of-year gifts include customization, which usually comes with an extra charge and requires extra time. This is especially true for personal customization with individual names or initials on each item. Other charges to remember to account for are drop shipping charges, actual shipping costs, and wrapping or kitting costs if applicable.
At M&IW, we will always help you maximize your budget by leveraging our industry connections and special offers. No matter your budget, we source multiple options so you can choose the best fit for your organization and your recipients.
Corporate Gifting Trends
Whether for corporate holiday gifts, event attendee gifts, or employee thank-you gifts, certain trends remain popular no matter the recipient or purpose.
Gifting Experiences
Experiential gifts can turn the actual gift into the event, such as designing your own sneakers or attending a tasting. These experiences work especially well for remote workforces because they can be done in person or virtually.
Experiential gifts also include items whose use is an experience in itself, especially when it involves friends or family. Examples include ice cream makers, pickleball sets, tabletop fireplaces, and other products that bring people together.
Gifts That Give Back
Givebacks are no longer a trend but are becoming an integral part of the gift itself. Many gift companies partner with organizations to make each purchase more impactful. For example, some plant a tree for every item sold or donate a portion of sales to charity. For other organizations, the gift is the giveback, often with donations being made in the recipient’s name.
Green Gifting
Sustainability is a way of life for many individuals, and organizations are coming on board. There are many options when it comes to sustainable gifts, from items made with eco-friendly materials to reusable items designed to reduce waste. M&IW’s gifting experts are here to help you explore your options.
Continue the commitment to sustainability with reusable or recyclable packaging. Package small items in glass jars or metal tins instead of plastic, for example, or use recyclable packing paper instead of plastic bubble wrap.
Feel-Good Gifts
Wellness is increasingly popular both personally and professionally. Companies are taking steps to ensure employees take care of themselves physically and mentally, and that extends to their gifts. Popular examples include hand-held massagers, stress-relief candles, fitness clothing and equipment, and spa experiences.
The Gift of Choice
One size does not fit all, so let recipients choose their gift. Offering multiple options increases engagement and is more appreciated because there’s a better chance your recipients will use and enjoy the item. It also increases the likelihood that they’ll remember who gifted it. One of the best ways to offer a choice of gifts is with technology like M&IW’s engagement platform, EPIC.
Gifts with a Twist
Whether it’s the recipient’s initials or the company logo, customization has always been popular for corporate gifts. However, gone are the days of simply adding a logo. Customization today offers enhanced techniques that transform products in fun and unexpected ways, such as adding a custom image to a speaker or wireless charging pad.
For more inspiration, explore the top trends in corporate gifting.
Wrap It Up!
Sometimes, the most meaningful part of a gift is the way it’s presented and the sentiment adorning it. Holiday gifts especially deserve an extra special touch to help spread end-of-year cheer. Even low-cost items can achieve a more elevated, high-end look with the help of thoughtful presentation.
Our Flow Gifting & Engagement Team offers kitting services, including custom notecards and branded shipping boxes, to enhance any package. We can then mail items directly to recipients, saving you the time and hassle.
Your Go-To Gifting Resource
No matter the recipient, the perfect gift is just waiting to be discovered. Maximize your budget (and save yourself some time and stress) and make M&IW’s Flow Gifting & Engagement Team your go-to gifting resource! Contact us to learn more about our capabilities and explore the unique, customizable opportunities available for the holidays and year-round.
Contributor
Peggy Polick
Sr. Engagement Consultant
Meetings & Incentives Worldwide, Inc.