Corporate gifting has long been a way to show appreciation, build loyalty, and strengthen business relationships—but for decades, the approach has remained largely the same. Companies have relied on logo-covered swag, gift baskets, and generic gift cards, often given out of obligation rather than true intent. But in today’s workplace, employees and clients expect more.
As the workforce evolves and the experience economy continues to grow, corporate gifting is undergoing a major transformation. The shift is clear: people want meaningful experiences, not more things. A growing number of companies are recognizing that the best gifts aren’t just received—they’re remembered.
The future of corporate gifting is about thoughtful, personalized moments that create lasting impressions. Instead of another branded notebook that gets tossed in a drawer, imagine gifting a weekend retreat, a wine-tasting experience, or a behind-the-scenes tour of a dream destination. These experiences don’t just check a box—they create emotionally charged, memorable moments that foster genuine connection.
So what’s driving this shift, and what does the next evolution of corporate gifting look like? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Traditional Corporate Gifting No Longer Works
For years, companies have spent billions of dollars on corporate gifts, with the assumption that these tokens of appreciation strengthen relationships and improve engagement. But as expectations shift, traditional corporate gifting is proving to be ineffective, impersonal, and often wasteful.
1. The Problem with Generic Gifting
Most corporate gifts—whether it's branded swag like mugs, pens, and notebooks or generic gift cards—often miss the mark despite good intentions.
- Employees frequently receive the same items year after year, with little consideration for individual preferences.
- Clients report that even thoughtful gestures can fall flat. One example from real estate agents involved gifting a bottle of wine during the holidays. While the gesture was well-meaning, it wasn't unique or memorable; in this case, the wine was brought to a holiday party and left on the snack table.
- Ultimately, these gifts tend to go unused, regifted, or forgotten, failing to create any meaningful emotional connection.
2. The Declining Impact of Physical Gifts
The numbers speak for themselves—people simply don’t value material gifts the way they once did. Studies show that:
- 72% of millennials prefer experiences over material gifts (Eventbrite).
- 80% of corporate gifts are forgotten within six months (PPAI).
- Employees who receive experiential rewards report 2.7x higher engagement levels (Incentive Research Foundation).
In contrast, experiences create emotional connections that last. A weekend getaway, a bucket-list adventure, or a masterclass with an industry expert isn’t just a gift—it’s a memory.
The Rise of Experience-Based Gifting
Businesses are ditching mundane corporate swag for transformative experiences that leave a lasting impression. Giftory empowers companies to make bold statements with a curated selection of unforgettable adventures, gourmet dining, and inspiring workshops that spark genuine connections and ignite loyalty. Instead of settling for generic rewards that fade into oblivion, Giftory turns each gifting moment into a powerful celebration of individual contribution and team spirit.
Offering unmatched flexibility, Giftory’s platform lets companies choose instant digital eVouchers or exquisitely crafted physical gifts, each enhanced by a personal message. In an era that prizes authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainability, Giftory redefines recognition—transforming every gift from a transactional exchange into an extraordinary experience that resonates deeply and builds enduring
Why Experiences Create More Impact
Unlike physical gifts, experiences offer real, lasting value that resonates with employees and clients on a deeper level.
✔ Emotionally Engaging – Unlike a branded coffee mug or a gift card, experiences create lasting memories tied to positive emotions. When someone receives an experience—whether it’s a spa retreat, a cooking class, or a private concert—they associate that joy and excitement with the company that provided it, strengthening their connection to the brand.
✔ Socially Shareable – Experiences are naturally more shareable than physical gifts. Employees and clients are far more likely to post on social media about an incredible travel experience, team-building retreat, or exclusive event than they are to showcase a corporate-branded notepad. This amplifies brand goodwill, turning gifting into an organic marketing opportunity.
✔ Customizable & Inclusive – One of the biggest flaws in traditional corporate gifting is its one-size-fits-all approach. Experience-based gifting, on the other hand, allows for personalization and choice. A team member who loves adventure can choose skydiving or a zip-lining tour, while someone who prefers relaxation can opt for a wellness retreat or meditation experience. This level of personalization ensures that every recipient feels seen and valued, regardless of their background, interests, or lifestyle.
✔ Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – Traditional corporate gifts often contribute to waste and overproduction, with items like plastic swag, packaging-heavy gift baskets, and unnecessary merchandise ending up in landfills. Experience-based gifting is a more sustainable, environmentally friendly option—no unnecessary waste, no disposable products, just moments that matter. Companies looking to prioritize green initiatives can even incorporate carbon-neutral travel experiences, eco-conscious retreats, or nature-focused excursions into their gifting programs.
✔ More Interesting & Memorable – Let’s face it: traditional corporate gifts are boring. Another branded tote bag? A generic fruit basket? Employees and clients have seen it all before. Experience gifts stand out because they are exciting, unique, and deeply personal. Whether it’s an exclusive wine tasting, a VIP sports event, or a creative workshop, these gifts spark genuine excitement and anticipation—something a physical item rarely does.
Why Businesses Are Making the Shift
Companies that have embraced experience-based gifting aren’t just following a trend—they’re seeing real results. Employees rewarded with experiences feel more valued, engaged, and connected to their company. Clients who receive thoughtful, curated experiences are more likely to remember and appreciate the brand that provided them.
The bottom line? The future of corporate gifting isn’t about giving more things—it’s about creating meaningful moments that make a lasting impact.
Real-World Examples: How Leading Companies Are Embracing Experience-Based Gifting
Many forward-thinking companies have already shifted away from traditional corporate gifts and adopted experience-based rewards to foster employee engagement, retention, and client loyalty. Here are some standout examples of businesses that are redefining corporate gifting in 2025:
1. Salesforce: ‘Thank You’ Experiences for Employees
Salesforce understands that meaningful recognition goes beyond cash bonuses. The company offers experience-based rewards as part of its employee recognition programs, including:
- All-expenses-paid trips for top performers.
- Wellness-focused experiences, such as spa retreats and mental health workshops.
- Philanthropy-driven experiences, allowing employees to take volunteer vacations where they can contribute to causes they care about.
This approach aligns with Salesforce’s emphasis on employee happiness and corporate social responsibility.
2. Patagonia: Outdoor Experiences as Employee Benefits
Patagonia, known for its strong environmental and employee-centric policies, integrates experience gifting into its benefits package. Instead of giving traditional corporate gifts, Patagonia:
- Offers paid “Environmental Internship” experiences, where employees can work with environmental organizations for up to two months.
- Provides stipends for outdoor adventures such as hiking, surfing, and skiing trips.
- Hosts team retreats in nature to encourage bonding and alignment with the company’s mission.
By embedding experiential rewards into its culture, Patagonia reinforces its brand identity while keeping employees engaged and motivated.
3. Spotify: ‘Jam Sessions’ and Creative Experience Perks
Spotify believes in fueling creativity through experiences. Employees are regularly rewarded with:
- Private concerts and VIP music experiences, featuring exclusive artist meet-and-greets.
- Creative retreats, where employees can collaborate, explore new skills, and recharge.
- Custom wellness experiences, such as meditation retreats and immersive sound therapy sessions.
These perks align with Spotify’s brand and culture, ensuring employees feel creatively inspired and appreciated.
The Common Thread: Why These Companies Are Leading the Way
What do these companies have in common?
✔ They prioritize experiences over material goods.
✔ Their rewards align with their brand identity and values.
✔ They offer employees choice and personalization in their gifts.
✔ Their gifting strategies reinforce company culture and engagement.
These organizations understand that the future of corporate gifting is about creating memorable, meaningful experiences that employees and clients will actually appreciate. Whether it’s travel stipends, personal growth workshops, or wellness retreats, experience-based gifting is redefining workplace rewards and recognition for 2025 and beyond.
How Corporate Gifting Will Look in 2025
As businesses move away from transactional gifts and toward meaningful experiences, the corporate gifting landscape is evolving. Here are some of the biggest trends shaping the future:
1. Personalized & Choice-Based Gifting
Instead of picking one gift for all employees or clients, companies are turning to curated gifting platforms that allow recipients to choose their own reward. This ensures that everyone gets something they truly value.
Platforms like Giftory make it easy for companies to offer personalized, high-impact rewards with a seamless gifting experience.
2. A Focus on Wellness & Work-Life Balance
Companies are prioritizing well-being in their gifting strategies, offering:
- Spa & wellness experiences
- Mental health retreats
- Work-from-anywhere stipends
- Personal development opportunities
This aligns corporate gifting with broader well-being initiatives, showing employees that their company cares about their health and happiness.
3. Sustainable & Ethical Gifting
The era of wasteful corporate swag is coming to an end. Instead, companies are choosing sustainable, socially responsible gifts, such as:
- Carbon-neutral travel experiences
- Donations to causes chosen by the employee or client
- Eco-conscious retreats and adventure experiences
4. Strategic Client Gifting
Corporate gifting is no longer just about end-of-year thank-yous. Companies are using experience-based gifting as part of a larger strategy to build stronger relationships, close deals, and retain clients. Instead of sending a forgettable holiday gift basket, companies are treating top clients to:
- VIP experiences
- Luxury dining experiences
- Exclusive adventure opportunities
The result? Stronger connections, higher client retention, and increased brand loyalty.
The Future of Corporate Gifting Is About Meaningful Moments
The corporate gifting industry is evolving, and companies that adapt will reap the rewards. Employees and clients no longer want gifts that clutter their desks—they want experiences that inspire, excite, and leave a lasting impact.
Forward-thinking companies are already making the shift to:
✔ Personalized experience-based gifting
✔ Wellness and personal development rewards
✔ Sustainable and ethical gifting choices
✔ High-value, strategic client experiences
Giftory is at the forefront of this transformation, offering a seamless way for businesses to provide highly curated, personalized experiences that employees and clients will actually appreciate. With options for eVouchers or premium physical packaging, built-in personalization, and room for a thoughtful message, Giftory makes it easy to create meaningful gifting moments.
The companies that embrace this new era of gifting will stand out, fostering stronger relationships, deeper loyalty, and a workplace culture that truly values its people.
So the real question is: will your company be ahead of the curve—or stuck in the past?