Corporate gifting isn’t just a thoughtful gesture — it’s a strategic tool that strengthens relationships, fosters loyalty, and boosts morale. The November 2024 Gifting Survey by Ready Set Gift offers a glimpse into the trends and preferences shaping corporate gifting today, providing actionable insights for your business.
Why Corporate Gifting Matters
Of the over survey participants, the majority were full-time employees in managerial to C-level positions within the banking/financial and healthcare sectors. The survey also included a smaller group of clients who had received business gifts.
For both employees and clients, gifts go beyond transactions, creating memorable connections. According to the survey:
- 87% of clients viewed the gifting business more positively after receiving a thoughtful item
- 4 in 5 were more inclined to do business with a company in the future that they received a gift from
- 79% of clients reported increased loyalty to the gifting business
- 73% of employees felt more loyal to their employer after receiving a gift
What Businesses Are Gifting
The survey highlights the most valued corporate gifts for employees and clients, showcasing options that combine practicality, appeal, and thoughtful investment.
- Technology: A standout category for both employees and clients, with items like wireless chargers and Bluetooth speakers consistently selected. Valued between $50-$250, these gifts balance functionality with a premium feel.
- Drinkware: Practical and cost-effective, drinkware remains a favorite, with 47% of employee gifts and 33% of client gifts valued under $50. Personalized tumblers and mugs offer daily utility and long-term visibility.
- Home and Office Items: Universally recognized for their usefulness, these gifts demonstrate care and thoughtfulness. Items like desk organizers, notebooks, and cozy home accessories are favored by many recipients.
- Premium Sporting Goods: Sporting goods stand out as a high-value category and are often priced between $100-$250. For unique requests, our Gifties are available to help create custom solutions.
The Keys to Successful Corporate Gifting
The survey underscores how timing and personalization elevate corporate gifting to new heights. For example:
- Thoughtful Timing Matters
Holidays are the most popular occasion for gifting, but respondents also appreciated gifts tied to specific events or milestones, such as work anniversaries, birthdays, or recognition for exceptional performance. Tailoring the timing of your gift can make it even more impactful, ensuring recipients feel seen and valued during meaningful moments. - The Power of Personalization
Generic gifts are appreciated, but thoughtful touches like engraving a name, choosing items suited to individual preferences, or aligning with company culture can make a world of difference. Comments such as “It makes me feel appreciated for my hard work” and “It really made me feel noticed” highlight how customization strengthens the emotional connection between the giver and recipient. - Balancing Branding with Individuality
Respondents favored gifts that combine practical use with a personal flair. Items like personalized drinkware, tech gadgets, or office accessories provide daily utility while showcasing your brand. Ready Set Gift specializes in creating thoughtful, customizable items that strike the perfect balance between brand visibility and meaningful recognition.
By focusing on the why behind the gift and tailoring it to the recipient’s interests or achievements, you can maximize the impact of your corporate gifting strategy.
Ready to Make an Impact?
We encourage you to explore our curated categories, from tech gadgets to drinkware, to find the perfect item for all your gift-giving needs. For unique requests, l, our Gifties are here to help bring your ideas to life.
Thoughtful Corporate Gifting by the Numbers
- Employee Loyalty
73% of employees felt more loyal to their employer after receiving a gift - Client Relationships
83% of clients were more likely to work with the gifting business in the future - Brand Positivity
87% of clients viewed the gifting business more positively - Budget-Friendly Favorites
47% of employee respondents valued their drinkware gifts under $50, making them a practical, cost-effective choice - High Tech Appeal
40% of client respondents valued their tech gifts at $100-$250, reflecting a bigger investment in this popular category
