In this article, we will discuss the top 20 budget-friendly corporate gifts for employees.
Importance of Corporate Gifts
According to a report by GlobalNewsWire, 68% of individuals state that receiving a memorable gift from their employer has enhanced their relationship with them. This underscores the capacity of gifts to foster positive connections, whether in personal or professional contexts. Data from a survey by Mrs Prindables indicates that 57% of surveyed employees are more likely to remain loyal to a company that provides gifts. In comparison, 62% do not anticipate receiving gifts from their employer this holiday season. This suggests an opportunity for employers to surprise their workers with tokens of appreciation, potentially fostering increased employee loyalty.
The WorldMetrics Report 2024 indicates that the global corporate gifting market is expected to grow to $242.9 billion. This means that companies worldwide are spending more on gifts for clients, employees, and partners. It shows how important giving gifts is for building good relationships and promoting brands. To make your employees feel valued and respected, your choice of gift is very important.
Gifts express gratitude and are more effective than mere objects. Marcel Mauss, a noted anthropologist, explored gift-giving in his 1925 study, “The Gift.” He revealed its complexity, highlighting its role in shaping relationships within workplaces and with clients. Mauss emphasized the multifaceted nature of gift-giving, involving legal, economic, spiritual, and moral obligations to give, receive, and reciprocate.
Gift-giving in the workplace often benefits the giver more than the receiver, yielding both tangible and intangible rewards. Many businesses, including giants like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) and Airbnb Inc. (NASDAQ:ABNB), recognize the importance of fostering a positive company culture through corporate gifting. By offering enticing gifts, benefits and perks, companies create an environment that promotes employee satisfaction, productivity, and creativity. Research, such as a Gallup poll, shows that employees who are actively engaged in their work tend to perform much better than their less engaged colleagues. This heightened level of engagement can lead to a significant increase in earnings per share, sometimes as much as 147%.
Top Corporate Gifting Ideas for 2024
In 2024, corporate gifting trends are driven by technological innovation, personalization, and a strong focus on sustainability and well-being. Businesses increasingly opt for eco-friendly gifts to show their commitment to environmental responsibility, choosing items like reusable drinkware, eco-friendly office supplies, and products made from recycled materials with minimal packaging. Tech gadgets remain popular, with wireless chargers, Bluetooth headphones, and smart home devices being highly appreciated for their practicality and ability to enhance daily life. Personalization is key, with companies using advanced techniques to create unique, custom gifts that leave a lasting impression.
Experience-based gifts are gaining traction, moving beyond traditional tangible items to offer memorable experiences like spa days, cooking classes, or event tickets. These gifts significantly boost employee morale and client loyalty while aligning with the company’s brand values and mission. Health and wellness gifts, such as fitness trackers, yoga mats, and customized health snack boxes, reflect a growing focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle. These options show the company’s commitment to the well-being of its employees and clients, fitting into broader corporate wellness trends.
Additionally, there is a strong appreciation for cultural and artisan gifts that support local businesses and artisans. Handcrafted items that reflect cultural significance or artisanal dedication are highly valued, offering a story that recipients can cherish. These gifts not only support local communities but also allow companies to showcase their local pride or global outreach, making them perfect for businesses looking to make a meaningful impact through their gifting choices.
With the dominance of e-commerce giants like Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) and Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT), finding affordable options has become easier than ever. Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) has exhibited steady revenue growth over recent quarters, with current quarter (June 2024) revenue estimated at $136.8 billion, marking a 1.8% increase from the same quarter last year ($134.38 billion). This growth continues into the next quarter (September 2024), where revenue is projected to be $145.7 billion, reflecting a 3% rise from the previous year’s $141.41 billion. Annually, Amazon’s revenue for 2024 is expected to reach $588.05 billion, a 2.3% increase from 2023’s $574.78 billion, with a potential jump to $653 billion in 2025, indicating an 11% growth. This growth is primarily driven by the company’s expanding market share in e-commerce, cloud computing (AWS), and various other services. However, the short-term growth rate shows a slight slowdown, likely due to market saturation and broader economic conditions.
In terms of earnings, Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) has consistently surpassed expectations, showcasing strong performance. For the quarter ending June 2023, the estimated EPS was $0.35, while the actual EPS was $0.65, an 85.7% surprise. This trend continued in September 2023, with an estimated EPS of $0.53 and an actual EPS of $0.86, a surprise of 62.3%. December 2023 also saw a positive earnings surprise, with actual EPS of $1.00 compared to the estimated $0.80, a 25% difference. For March 2024, the actual EPS was $0.90 against an estimated $0.77, a 16.9% surprise. Looking forward, the estimated EPS for the current quarter (June 2024) is $0.94, and for the next quarter (September 2024), it is $1.06. The full-year EPS for 2024 is projected at $4.18, with an expected rise to $5.31 in 2025.
Valuation measures for Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) reflect its premium valuation status. The trailing P/E ratio has decreased from 310.38 in Q1 2023 to 49.96, indicating improved earnings. The forward P/E ratio stands at 38.31, showing continued expectations of earnings growth. We should note that these estimates don’t tell much about whether Amazon is a cheap or expensive stock because Amazon has been shoveling its profits back into its business to subsidize either its growth or new initiatives. It isn’t a company that’s trying to maximize its short-term earnings. That’s why we believe Amazon shares will continue to perform better than the market. And we aren’t alone. AMZN is the #1 stock on our list of 31 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds.
With this backdrop, let’s explore our list of affordable corporate gifts for employees.
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Methodology
To identify affordable corporate gifts for employees, we implemented a consensus-based approach to collect information from various sources: including Social Imprints, Snappy, Meetings & Incentives, Babble for Business, Gemnote, and Hoppier. From these blogs we identified popular affordable gift items in 2024, and developed a systematic scoring system. Each gift item we found through our sources was listed, along with the number of times it appeared in sources. In order to refine our search, we checked and averaged out the prices of these gift items from Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT), as these platforms are typically deemed affordable.
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With this backdrop, let’s proceed to our list of 20 budget-friendly corporate gifts for employees.
20 Budget-Friendly Corporate Gifts for Employees
20. Laptop Backpacks
Average Price: $24.49
A laptop without a suitable bag to carry it in can be a hassle; it is a good idea to provide your staff with laptop backpacks that are sturdy. Affordable and good quality backpacks are typically sold at an average price of average of $25 on Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN). Laptop Backpacks enhance convenience and comfort, providing a practical solution for carrying laptops and other essentials while commuting or traveling.
19. Chocolate Basket
Average Price: $23.5
Chocolates are a popular and affordable corporate gift to consider. The idea is to leave employees with a positive impression of your brand, regardless of the sweet treat you deliver. A chocolate basket can prove to be a delightful treat and moment of indulgence, boosting morale and spreading joy among employees.
18. Mini Massage Device
Average Price: $22.99
Show your employees that you care about their well-being and health by gifting them a mini massage device. This thoughtful gift promotes tranquility and can alleviate muscle soreness and stiffness, making it a strong contender for the best corporate gift ever. By supporting physical well-being and relaxation, these devices offer employees a convenient way to relieve muscle tension and stress.
17. Smart Watches
Average Price: $22.49
If you have a tech-savvy workforce, the smartwatch is your best bet. It is more than a fashionable adornment and can serve as an amazing tool for fitness and work tracking. Valuable for employees who prioritize fitness and productivity, allowing them to track their health goals and stay connected on the go.
16. Wireless Earbuds
Average Price: $19.88
Gifting a wireless earbud as a corporate gift to your employees can be a great idea, exclusively if it offers features like noise cancellation. It can be overwhelming to find the perfect wireless earbuds. This enhances convenience and productivity, allowing employees to listen to music or take calls hands-free while working or on the move.
15. Promotional Pens
Average Price: $19.49
Pens are the old-school but still in high-demand gift option. A classy corporate gift would be a set of metal pens personalized with a name or initials. Alternatively, you can select environmentally friendly pens. The Promotional Pens provide a useful tool for daily tasks and note-taking, ensuring employees are always prepared and equipped to work efficiently.
14. Desktop Mug Warmer
Average Price: 17.49
How about gifting employees something they will love, but will never buy on their own? Now your staff will never again have to deal with a chilly cup of coffee or tea thanks to this ideal desktop mug warmer. This gifting option enhances comfort and enjoyment, ensuring employees can savor their favorite beverages at optimal temperatures throughout the day.
13. High-Quality Water Bottles
Average Price: $16.99
In today’s health-conscious workforce, promoting healthy habits is more important than ever. Encourage your employees to stay hydrated and eco-friendly with high-quality water bottles. Brands like Hydro Flask, Stanley, and S’well are leading the way in offering durable, sustainable options. These premium water bottles not only support hydration but also reinforce a commitment to sustainability, helping employees maintain their well-being and environmental consciousness throughout the day.
12. Travel Mugs
Average Price: $16.98
Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee on the go or staying hydrated throughout the day, travel mugs are an excellent choice. They serve as a constant reminder of your company’s commitment to care and environmental sustainability. By promoting the use of reusable drinkware, these mugs not only encourage eco-friendly practices but also help maintain the ideal temperature of beverages for extended periods, supporting both wellness and sustainability.
11. Customized Notebooks
Average Price: $15.99
Customized notebooks as corporate gifts can be personalized with your company’s emblem or a particular message, as well as the recipient’s name. This gift option fosters creativity and organization, offering employees a personalized space to jot down ideas, notes, and goals.
10. Succulent Plants
Average Price: $12.99
These presents will be wonderful office companions because they require little care and look nice. For inexpensive presents, go for succulents in little pots or make little arrangements of succulents. Provides a touch of nature to the workspace, improving air quality and enhancing the overall atmosphere, which can boost mood and productivity.
9. Scented Candles
Average Price: $12.88
Scented candles serve as an elegant and universally appreciated corporate gift, suitable for clients, partners, and employees alike. Their therapeutic aromas, such as lavender for relaxation or eucalyptus for invigoration, add a thoughtful touch that promotes well-being. Additionally, their versatility allows them to enhance any setting, from professional offices to personal living spaces, reflecting a company’s consideration and sophistication.
8. Desktop Vacuum Cleaner
Average Price: $12.75
A mini desktop vacuum cleaner is yet another compact and useful tool that can quickly remove crumbs from surfaces, eliminating any trace of late-afternoon snacking. Desk vacuum cleaners are budget-friendly, typically priced at $12.75. This helps employees maintain a clean and organized workspace, reducing distractions and promoting efficiency.
7. Self-care Kit
Average Price: $12.49
Presenting your employees with a self-care kit is a great way to express your gratitude for their health and happiness. It can include products such as aromatherapy diffusers, ergonomic desk accessories, essential oils and fitness trackers. The Self-care Kit promotes well-being and self-care, demonstrating the company’s commitment to employee health and happiness. Both Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN). and Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT). have various options for this depending on the gender and budget.
6. Desk Accessories
Average Price: $10.99
Desk accessories like engraved pen sets, fashionable organizers, and exquisite lamps can be a great way to help your coworkers and employees make their workstations unique. One interesting option is the Monitor Memo Board Computer Message Board offered by Amazon Inc. These add style and functionality to the workspace, allowing employees to personalize their desks and optimize their work environment.
5. Book
Average Price: $9.99
A book makes an excellent corporate gift because it conveys thoughtfulness and reflects a genuine appreciation for the recipient’s interests and professional development. It can offer valuable insights, knowledge, or entertainment, making it a timeless and versatile gift that can be enjoyed repeatedly. Additionally, a well-chosen book can enhance the company’s brand image by demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.
4. Power Bank
Average Price: $9.88
Tech gear is extremely handy and practical, making power banks an excellent choice for an affordable corporate gift. Those who enjoy traveling, work remotely, or are constantly on the move will find this very useful. Power banks ensure devices remain charged during critical times, enhancing productivity and convenience. Their compact and portable design makes them easy to carry, adding to their appeal as a thoughtful and practical gift.
3. Customized Keychains
Average Price: $8.99
Customizable keychains are among the top 3 affordable and thoughtful business gifts on our list. The initials of the recipient or the company logo and messages can be engraved on them to make them unique. Customized keychains add a personal touch to everyday items, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in the company. They are practical, always within reach, and serve as a constant reminder of the company’s appreciation and connection.
2. Desk Calendars
Average Price: $7.99
Customize desk calendars with your company’s logo, inspiring words, or branding. It’s a useful present that will keep employees organized throughout the year. These promote organization and time management, helping employees stay on top of deadlines and appointments.
1. T-Shirts
Average Price: $6.48
Affordable and practical, corporate t-shirts are a great investment. The saying “less is more” is perfect for T-shirts; all you need is a solid color, and little to no design. Gifting an ‘Employee of the Month’ t-shirt sounds like pure motivation. This gift option creates a sense of unity and belonging among employees, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
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Disclosure: none. 20 Budget-Friendly Corporate Gifts for Employees is originally published on Insider Monkey.
