Ever noticed how a small gift can make someone’s day? Turns out, it’s the same at work with corporate gift ideas for employees. 75% of companies say employee morale improves when they give gifts — and honestly, who doesn’t love a little surprise?
But let’s be real — not all gifts hit the mark. Another company-branded pen? A stress ball no one asked for? If you’re going to gift something, why not make it count? The best corporate gifts are useful, enjoyable, and actually make life easier.
We’ve put together 25 brilliant corporate gift ideas for employees — from clever desk gadgets to experience-based treats. And if you want something modern, sleek, and impossible to misplace, we’ll also explore Profyle Digital Business Cards.
Profyle Cards are a smart upgrade from old-school paper cards, making networking as easy as a quick tap or scan.
Why give corporate gifts to your company’s employees?
Motivation and Engagement
When employees feel recognised, they are more motivated and engaged. A study by Gallup found that engaged employees are 31% more productive, highlighting the tangible benefits of thoughtful gifting.
The Law of Reciprocity
The act of gifting also taps into the psychological principle of reciprocity. Dr. Robert Cialdini, a renowned psychologist, identified reciprocity as a key principle of influence. When someone receives a gift, they often feel compelled to return the favour, fostering a sense of loyalty and commitment.
Higher Employee Retention
Studies show that companies that practice corporate gifting have 40% higher employee retention rates than those that don’t. When people feel valued, they stay longer and perform better.
Shared Experiences
Moreover, smartly chosen corporate gifts can create a shared experience. Shared experiences, such as team-building activities or group outings, can improve collaboration by 25%. By investing in such gifts, companies not only reward individual performance but also promote a collaborative culture.
Long-Lasting Effect
It’s also worth noting that the impact of a well-chosen gift can be long-lasting. Approximately 35% of employees say that the increased job satisfaction they feel after receiving a meaningful gift lasts for three to six months.
Tech Gadgets as Corporate Gift Ideas for Employees
Smart Water Bottles
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Encourage hydration with bottles that track water intake and remind users to drink.
- Pricing: Approximately £30-£50.
- Dimensions: Varies; typically holds 500-700 ml.
- Packaging: Usually comes in sleek, branded boxes.
- Sample Corporate Gift: HidrateSpark PRO Smart Water Bottle
Wireless Chargers
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Offer convenient charging for smartphones and reduce desk clutter.
- Pricing: Around £20-£40.
- Dimensions: Compact; approximately 10 cm in diameter.
- Packaging: Comes in compact boxes with user manuals.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Anker Wireless Charger
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Help employees focus by reducing background noise.
- Pricing: Ranges from £100-£300.
- Dimensions: Over-ear design; varies by model.
- Packaging: Includes a carrying case and charging cables.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Sony WH-1000XM4
Wellness & Self-Care as Corporate Gift Ideas for Employees
Aromatherapy Kits
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Promote relaxation and stress relief.
- Pricing: Approximately £25-£60.
- Dimensions: Compact; includes essential oils and a diffuser.
- Packaging: Presented in a gift box with instructions.
- Sample Corporate Gift: ASAKUKI Essential Oil Diffuser Set
Desk Plants
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Improving workspace aesthetics and improve air quality.
- Pricing: Around £10-£30.
- Dimensions: Small; suitable for desks.
- Packaging: Delivered in protective packaging.
- Sample Corporate Gift: The Little Botanical Desk Plant
Ergonomic Supports
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Improve posture and comfort during work.
- Pricing: Approximately £20-£50.
- Dimensions: Varies; includes lumbar cushions or wrist rests.
- Packaging: Comes in branded boxes with usage instructions.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Everlasting Comfort Lumbar Support Pillow
Office Essentials as Corporate Gift Ideas for Employees
Customised Stationery
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Add a personal touch to daily office tools.
- Pricing: Around £15-£40.
- Dimensions: Standard stationery sizes.
- Packaging: Elegantly boxed or wrapped.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Papier Personalised Notebooks
Smart Notebooks
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Allow notes to be digitised and reused.
- Pricing: Approximately £30-£50.
- Dimensions: Similar to traditional notebooks.
- Packaging: Includes notebook and special pen.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Rocketbook Fusion
Profyle Digital Business Cards
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Modernise networking with eco-friendly, digital contact sharing.
- Pricing: Varies; contact for pricing.
- Dimensions: Digital; with an option for a physical credit card-sized NFC card.
- Packaging: Delivered electronically.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Profyle Digital Business Cards
Food & Beverage Treat Gift Ideas for Employees
Gourmet Snack Boxes
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Offer a variety of high-quality snacks.
- Pricing: Around £25-£50.
- Dimensions: Varies; typically a medium-sized box.
- Packaging: Attractively packaged with a variety of snacks.
- Sample Corporate Gift: SnackNation Snack Box
Personalised Coffee Sets
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Perfect for coffee enthusiasts.
- Pricing: Approximately £30-£60.
- Dimensions: Includes coffee beans and a personalised mug.
- Packaging: Presented in a gift box.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Pact Coffee Personalised Gift Set
Experience-Based Gift Ideas for Employees
Experience-based gifts create lasting memories and show employees that you value their personal growth and happiness.
Online Course Subscriptions
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Encourage personal and professional development.
- Pricing: Around £100-£200 per year.
- Dimensions: Digital access; no physical size.
- Packaging: Delivered via email with access instructions.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Create Academy
Cooking Classes
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Offer employees the chance to learn new culinary skills and enjoy a fun, interactive experience.
- Pricing: Approximately £50-£100 per person.
- Booking: Sessions can be booked through local culinary schools or online platforms.
- Sample Link: Leiths School of Food and Wine
- Sample Corporate Gift: Jamie Oliver Cooking School
Adventure Experiences
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Provide thrilling activities like hot air balloon rides, zip-lining, or driving experiences that create lasting memories.
- Pricing: Ranges from £75-£200, depending on the activity.
- Booking: Available through experience providers or specialized gift companies.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Red Letter Days
Wellness Retreats
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Encourage relaxation and self-care with spa days or wellness retreats, promoting mental and physical well-being.
- Pricing: Approximately £100-£300 per person.
- Booking: Can be arranged through wellness centers or dedicated retreat organizers.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Champneys Spa
Theatre or Concert Tickets
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Offer cultural enrichment and entertainment, allowing employees to enjoy live performances.
- Pricing: Typically £40-£150 per ticket.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased through official box offices or authorized sellers.
- Sample Corporate Gift: London Theatre
Online Learning Subscriptions
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Support personal and professional development with access to a wide range of courses.
- Pricing: Around £20-£50 per month.
- Subscription: Available through various online learning platforms.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Future Learn
Virtual Escape Rooms
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Promote team-building and problem-solving skills in a fun, interactive virtual environment.
- Pricing: Approximately £15-£30 per person.
- Booking: Sessions can be arranged through online escape room providers.
- Sample Corporate Gift: The Panic Room
Subscription Boxes
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Provide ongoing enjoyment with monthly deliveries tailored to individual interests, such as books, gourmet foods, or hobby kits.
- Pricing: Typically £10-£50 per month.
- Subscription: Available through various specialized providers.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Bookishly
Luxury and Premium Gift Ideas for Employees
High-End Leather Goods
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Items like premium leather wallets, portfolios, or bags offer durability and a touch of elegance, making them cherished possessions.
- Pricing: Typically ranges from £100 to £500, depending on the item and brand.
- Packaging: Often presented in branded boxes or dust bags, enhancing the unboxing experience.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Montblanc Leather Collection
Luxury Watches
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: A timeless accessory that symbolizes appreciation and can be a lasting memento of achievement.
- Pricing: Prices vary widely, starting from £200 and reaching into the thousands.
- Packaging: Presented in elegant watch boxes, often with certificates of authenticity.
- Sample Corporate Gift: TAG Heuer Luxury Watch Boxes
Gourmet Food and Wine Hampers
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Curated selections of fine wines, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet treats provide a luxurious culinary experience.
- Pricing: Typically between £75 and £300, depending on the contents.
- Packaging: Beautifully arranged in wicker baskets or elegant boxes, often with options for personalisation.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Fortnum & Mason Hampers
Executive Tech Accessories
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: High-quality tech accessories like beposke keyboards, premium wireless speakers, or luxury smart pens enhance productivity and add a touch of sophistication to daily tasks.
- Pricing: Ranges from £150 to £500.
- Packaging: Typically comes in sleek, branded packaging, suitable for gifting.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Keydous
Customised Luxury Experiences
- Why They’re a Great Employee Gift Idea: Offering experiences such as private wine tastings, exclusive golf lessons, or personalised art classes provides memorable and unique opportunities for employees.
- Pricing: Varies based on the experience; typically £200 and up.
- Booking: Can be arranged through specialized providers or luxury experience companies.
- Sample Corporate Gift: Virgin Experience Days
How to Choose the Right Corporate Gifts
Giving thoughtful presents can make workers feel valued and happy. When you get it right, it speaks volumes about your appreciation.
Understand Your Team’s Preferences
Every team is a mix of unique individuals. Pay attention to their hobbies, interests, and needs. For instance, if someone loves gardening, a small desk plant might brighten their day. Personalised gifts show that you value them as individuals.
Practical Tip: Consider conducting a simple, anonymous survey to gather insights into your team’s interests. This approach ensures that your gifts are both thoughtful and well-received.
Balance Personalisation with Professionalism
While it’s great to add a personal touch, ensure the gift remains appropriate for the workplace. A custom notebook with their name embossed is both personal and professional. It’s about finding that sweet spot where the gift feels special yet suitable for the office environment.
Practical Tip: Opt for gifts that can be used in a professional setting but have a personal element, like a high-quality pen engraved with the employee’s initials.
Consider Practicality and Usefulness
Gifts that can be used daily often have the most significant impact. Think about items that make their workday smoother, like a quality water bottle or a sleek desk organizer. Practical gifts demonstrate thoughtfulness and care for their well-being.
Practical Tip: Choose items that address common workplace needs, such as ergonomic accessories or tech gadgets that enhance productivity.
Align with Company Values
Your gifts can reflect your company’s ethos. If sustainability is a core value, eco-friendly products like digital business cards, reusable tote bags or bamboo utensils can be ideal, as it is a growing trend. This not only reinforces your brand’s principles but also fosters a sense of shared purpose.
Practical Tip: Partner with local artisans or eco-friendly brands to source gifts that support sustainability and community engagement.
Incorporate Modern Technology
In today’s digital age, tech-savvy gifts can be a hit. For example, Profyle Digital Business Cards offer a modern twist on traditional networking tools. They allow employees to share contact information effortlessly, showcasing innovation and practicality.
Practical Tip: Explore the latest tech accessories that can aid in daily tasks, such as wireless chargers or smart notebooks, to keep your team connected and efficient.
Set a Reasonable Budget
It’s essential to establish a budget that reflects your appreciation without causing financial strain. Remember, it’s the thought and effort that count more than the price tag. Even modest gifts, when chosen thoughtfully, can leave a lasting impression.
Practical Tip: Plan your gifting strategy in advance to take advantage of bulk purchasing or seasonal discounts, ensuring you stay within budget while providing quality gifts.
Finally, Plan Ahead
Avoid the last-minute rush by planning your gifting strategy in advance. This allows you to choose meaningful gifts and ensures timely delivery, especially during busy seasons.
Practical Tip: Schedule gifting like any other business task. Set a reminder to start planning at least two months in advance. If you’re sending gifts to remote teams, opt for easy-to-deliver digital gifts like Profyle Cards or online gift vouchers.
Why Give Digital Business Cards as Corporate Gifts?
Paper business cards are easy to lose, easy to forget, and, let’s be honest, not exactly exciting.
That’s why digital business cards are a brilliant corporate gift. They’re modern, practical, and save your employees from awkward pocket rummaging. Here’s why they make the perfect gift for your team.
1. They Save Trees (and Your Reputation)
Did you know that over 7 billion paper business cards are printed every year—and most are thrown away within a week? That’s a lot of trees sacrificed for something that usually ends up in the bin. Digital business cards cut out the waste while making your company look more eco-friendly and forward-thinking. Win-win. (Source)
Pro tip: If your company cares about sustainability, gifting digital business cards shows you’re actually doing something about it, instead of just talking about it in meetings.
2. No More ‘Oh No, I Ran Out of Cards!’ Moments
With traditional business cards, you either have too many or, when you actually need one, none at all. Digital business cards? Always available. Always updated. No printing costs. You won’t have to reprint 500 new cards every time someone gets promoted. (Source)
Bonus: If an employee changes their phone number, job title, or hairstyle, they can update their details in seconds, instead of staring at a stack of outdated paper cards.
3. More Than Just a Name and Number
Let’s be honest—traditional business cards are pretty boring. Name, number, job title… yawn. Digital business cards can link to social media profiles, portfolios, booking calendars, and even a video intro. They make networking smoother and way more interesting. (Source)
Tip: Employees who network a lot—like sales teams—will love this. A digital card lets them share everything in one tap instead of handing out old-school paper rectangles.
4. They Work with Everything
A good gift is one that people actually use, and digital business cards work on any phone, tablet, or laptop. They can be shared via QR code, email, or even AirDrop. Plus, some platforms connect directly to CRM systems, saving hours of typing out new contacts. (Source)
Imagine: Instead of sorting through a pile of paper cards after a networking event, employees just scan and save contacts instantly. Less admin. More productivity.
5. You Can Actually Track Them
Handing out a paper business card is like tossing a bottle into the ocean—you’ll never know where it ends up. With a digital card, you can see how often it’s viewed or shared, making it easier to follow up with new contacts. (Source)
For your team: They can check if someone actually saved their details or just did that awkward “Thanks, I’ll look at this later” thing.
6. Perfect for Germaphobes and Tech Fans Alike
Handing out a business card means actual physical contact. Some people love that. Others… not so much. Digital cards let employees share details without shaking hands, swapping paper, or worrying about hygiene. Just scan, save, and go. (Source)
Extra perk: No more fumbling for a pen to write down missing details. Digital cards always get the contact info right (unless, of course, they mistype their own name).
7. Customisable, Classy, and Cool
With digital business cards, employees can match their card to their personal brand. They can add their photo, company logo, or even a fun tagline. It’s more memorable than a plain white rectangle with tiny black print. (Source)
Office-friendly humour: Let your employees get creative! Maybe “Networking Ninja” looks better than “Account Manager.”
Real Stories from Real Customers
Here’s why real companies are switching to digital cards for their teams.
1. Ralph Lauren: Making Networking Fancy
🗣 Joe Balfe from Ralph Lauren says:
“We’ve been able to launch these cards, in place of traditional business cards, across our European business with ease – and the initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”
💡 What this means: When a brand as stylish as Ralph Lauren upgrades to digital business cards, you know they’re onto something. Employees can network effortlessly without stuffing their pockets full of crumpled-up paper. Plus, no more awkward moments of running out of cards mid-handshake.
2. SOGO Mobility: Saving Trees & Looking Smart
🗣 SOGO Mobility shares:
“As part of our ESG Policies, we’ve been looking at an alternative to traditional Business Cards. The quality of the product, service, and dashboard made Profyle Card an absolute must.”
💡 What this means: If your company cares about being green, this is a no-brainer. Instead of printing thousands of cards that disappear faster than office biscuits, you’re giving employees a tech-forward, eco-friendly way to share their details. Bonus: You can say you’re “saving the planet” every time someone asks about your cool digital card.
3. Curtins: Keeping Things Digital & Easy
🗣 Kate Clegg from Curtins says:
“The cards are easy to use, more sustainable than printed, and reflect the digital-first approach of our business.”
💡 What this means: Some companies talk about being digital-first, but Curtins actually walks the walk. No more outdated contact details or scrambling for a pen to scribble on a business card — employees just tap, scan, and connect. It’s simple, smart, and a whole lot cooler than the old-fashioned way.
