Corporate gifting is more than a seasonal checkbox.
When done right, it can help you build stronger relationships, leave a lasting impression, and show real appreciation, whether you’re thanking clients, welcoming new employees, or celebrating a milestone.
But let’s be honest: not all corporate gifts hit the mark.
Nobody remembers a poorly branded water bottle or another generic fruit basket. If you're going to invest in gifting, it should feel personal, considered, and aligned with your brand.
Here’s what we’ve learned about gifting in a way that people actually remember and appreciate.
1. Know Why You're Sending the Gift
Before choosing what to send, be clear on why you’re sending it. That helps guide the tone, contents, and timing.
Common reasons include:
- Thanking a client after a project or pitch
- Welcoming a new team member
- Recognising a work anniversary
- Celebrating a company milestone
- Supporting employees during a tough season (e.g. return to office, remote burnout)
Knowing the ‘why’ helps avoid random, last-minute gifting that feels impersonal or out of touch.
2. Make It Personal (Without Overcomplicating It)
Personal doesn’t mean custom-engraved gold pens. It means choosing items that feel like they’ve been selected with care.
That could look like:
- Including a handwritten note from the team
- Adding one product that reflects your company’s culture
- Choosing packaging that feels modern, not dated
- Sending different gift types to different tiers of clients or teams
At SHOPBOXD, we help clients create gifts that reflect their tone of voice and values without needing a full-blown design process.
3. Match the Gift to the Moment
Some gifting occasions are celebratory (launches, holidays), while others are more about support (wellbeing, employee care, quiet encouragement).
Here are some of the most popular gifting types we’ve created for clients:
- Client Thank-You Boxes: A curated box of treats, drinks, and a branded card - a low-effort, high-impact way to stay memorable.
- Welcome Boxes for New Hires: Notebooks, snacks, a coffee voucher, and something branded - sets the tone on day one.
- Employee Wellbeing Gifts: Calming, thoughtful packages for teams navigating burnout or change.
- End-of-Year Gifting: Something meaningful that doesn’t feel like a bulk order.
4. Don’t Leave It to the Last Minute
If you're planning seasonal or event-based gifting, the earlier you start, the more options you'll have and the better the end result.
We work with clients to plan ahead where possible, but we’re also used to last-minute requests. (We've turned around 100+ boxes in under a week. And we still made them feel personal.)
5. You Don’t Need to Know Exactly What You Want
Not sure what to send? You don’t need a full brief to get started. Most of our clients come to us with a vague idea and we help shape it into something memorable, practical, and well-received.
Let’s Build Something Worth Sending
We’ve helped companies of all sizes send gifts that land well; whether it’s 5 boxes or 5,000. If you’re looking to make a thoughtful gesture that reflects your brand, we’d love to help.