Corporate Christmas Gift Trends for 2024: Embracing Sustainability and Impactful Giving

The way companies approach corporate Christmas gifting has seen significant shifts over the past few years. The global pandemic, the rise of remote work, and growing concerns about sustainability have all played a role in shaping these trends. As we move into 2024, businesses are increasingly looking for thoughtful, meaningful, and sustainable ways to show appreciation to their teams and clients. Here's a look at the latest trends in corporate Christmas gifts and how sustainability is taking center stage.

The Evolving Landscape of Corporate Gifting

The surge in remote work during the pandemic led to a remarkable 80% increase in online gift searches, with employee gift boxes becoming a popular choice for connecting teams working virtually. Human Resources departments are continually exploring strategies to boost employee morale and foster team cohesion, with gifting emerging as a powerful tool. The focus has shifted towards more personalised and thoughtful corporate gift hampers that not only express appreciation but also strengthen business relationships.

In 2024, this trend continues as companies increasingly prioritise meaningful corporate gift hampers over traditional branded items like USB sticks, mugs, or keyrings. The goal is to excite recipients and evoke genuine appreciation through gifts that carry deeper significance. Let’s dive into some of the prevailing trends in corporate gift hampers this year.

Will Corporate Christmas Gifting Rise or Decline in 2024?

As we approach the festive season, a common question arises: will corporate Christmas gifting continue to grow, or will it decline? While predicting the exact future is challenging, it's evident that corporate gifting remains a cost-effective HR strategy, even if budgets may not reach the levels seen during the height of the pandemic. In 2020, when office Christmas parties were off the table, companies redirected those budgets towards more extravagant corporate gifts. Now, with parties back on the agenda, we can expect gifting budgets to persist, albeit with a more balanced approach.

Historically, the number of companies participating in corporate Christmas gifting has steadily increased. For instance, November and December 2021 saw an 8.4% rise in gift-giving compared to 2019. A survey by the National Retail Federation highlighted that 67% of consumers expected a holiday gift from their employer in 2018, up from 63% in 2016 and 59% in 2017. Additionally, HR news reports that 88% of employees are hoping for a Christmas gift from their employers this year.

However, the impact of the current cost of living crisis on corporate gifting remains uncertain. On one hand, corporate gifts are a cost-effective HR tool and often more affordable than an office Christmas meal. Employees, particularly those who have received gifts in previous years, may still expect one. On the other hand, rising inflation may force some companies to reassess their budgets.

The Popularity of Storytelling in Corporate Gift Hampers

In 2024, corporate gift hampers that tell a story are set to be more popular than ever. Offering gifts with an inspiring narrative—whether it's about how the gift supports community development, reforestation, or provides jobs to those facing barriers to employment—adds a layer of meaning that resonates deeply with recipients. For example, Social Stories Club offers an employee gift box where every product inside creates a social or environmental impact. From chocolates that aid reforestation projects to soaps empowering individuals with disabilities, these gifts go beyond material value by making a positive difference in the world.

The Shift Towards Sustainable Corporate Gift Hampers

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it's a core value for many companies today. Workers increasingly seek to align themselves with employers that prioritise sustainability, and corporate gifts provide a powerful way to demonstrate these shared values. Sustainable corporate gift hampers, with eco-friendly packaging and products that minimise waste, are becoming the norm. Companies can choose from reusable hampers, recyclable and biodegradable gift boxes, and hampers that offset the carbon footprint of deliveries. Opting for consumable or reusable products, such as food, drink, tote bags, and coffee cups, ensures that the gift is both appreciated and sustainable.

Including a note that outlines the company’s CSR goals within these sustainable employee gift boxes can further reinforce the organisation’s commitment to sustainability, helping to align team members with these values.

Adapting to Virtual Work Environments with Corporate Gifting

The rise of remote work has led to new gifting trends, particularly around virtual Christmas parties. As companies continue to operate in a hybrid or fully remote model, the need to connect with remote employees has never been greater. To help virtual team members feel included during holiday celebrations, companies are sending sustainable gift hampers tailored for virtual events. These hampers might include a journal, pens, snacks, and drinks, along with festive items like mulled wine, ensuring that remote employees can join in the festivities from afar.

Supporting Small Businesses and Social Enterprises

In the context of the cost-of-living crisis, many large corporations are choosing to support small businesses and social enterprises through their gifting choices. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the positive impact that corporate spending can have on local economies and communities. Social enterprises, like Social Stories Club, are leading the way by offering high-quality, sustainable hampers that provide job opportunities to individuals facing employment barriers. By incorporating social enterprises into their supply chains, companies can make a significant impact while meeting their corporate gifting needs.

Strengthening Connections with Remote Employees Through Gifting

With remote work becoming a permanent fixture for many companies, finding creative ways to maintain team cohesion is crucial. While virtual socials have lost some of their appeal, a thoughtful corporate gift can bridge the gap, making remote employees feel valued and connected to the team. A well-chosen gift can serve as a tangible reminder of the company’s appreciation for their hard work, fostering a sense of belonging even from a distance.

The Role of Sustainability in Reflecting Company Values

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a reflection of a company’s core values. Corporate gift hampers that align with these values are more than just gifts—they are a statement. A company that adheres to sustainable practices should ensure that its gifts reflect those commitments. For instance, a sustainable corporate gift hamper that includes ethical products and eco-friendly packaging sends a clear message that the company is serious about its sustainability goals. This alignment helps reinforce the company’s values both internally among employees and externally with clients.

A Spotlight on the Pick-Me-Up Sustainable Christmas Gift Box

One example of a sustainable Christmas gift box that embodies these values is the Pick-Me-Up gift box. This thoughtful collection includes items like Twin Pack Earl Grey Tea, which contributes to educational infrastructure in tea-growing regions, and Sea Salt & Caramel Chocolate, which supports local cocoa farmers through fair trade practices. The box also features organic soap created by artists with disabilities, and chocolates that contribute to reforestation efforts. Each item not only delights the recipient but also tells a story of social and environmental impact.

Conclusion

As we look ahead to 2024, the trends in corporate Christmas gifting continue to evolve, with sustainability and meaningful giving at the forefront. Sustainable gift hampers are an excellent way to show appreciation to employees, clients, and partners while also making a positive impact on the world. At Social Stories Club, we specialise in creating ethical corporate gifts that tell inspiring stories of social and environmental change. Whether you’re looking for a sustainable Christmas hamper, a bespoke corporate gift, or a build-your-own gift hamper option, our team is here to help you find the perfect solution.

If you’re searching for a sustainable corporate gifting company, look no further. Get in touch with Social Stories Club today by booking a call to explore our wide range of sustainable gift hampers, ethical gift boxes, and more. Let’s make this Christmas not just a time of giving, but a time of giving back.

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Social Stories Club Corporate Gifting

If you are looking to show your team how much they are appreciated, attract and retain clients, or you have a corporate event and you want to create an impression, then our sustainable corporate hampers are just what you need. We have created the most exciting gift to give and receive which are packaged beautifully using sustainable materials, filled with delicious products made by social enterprises, and also include a storybook starting conversations about sustainability.

"Social Stories Club is a fantastic initiative that enables social enterprises to collaborate in such a creative way. The perfect way to buy gifts with a social impact" - David Adair, Head of Community Engagement, PwC