Christmas in July: Your How-To Guide for Holiday Gifting
Summer is in full swing, and while the holiday season might seem distant, now is the perfect time to start thinking about holiday gifting for your clients, potential customers, and team members! At Good Time Creative, we specialize in designing and producing memorable and meaningful branded kits and merchandise, making us your go-to partner for all your corporate gifting needs.
The Impact of Gifting
Corporate gifting isn't just a kind gesture—it's a catalyst for enriching relationships and staying connected with employees, customers, and partners alike. Studies highlight a notable evolution in corporate gifting habits since 2020, showing that it's no longer limited to the holiday season. Respondents identified three essential occasions for gifting, demonstrating that corporate gifting is now seen as a year-round opportunity to foster professional relationships, especially in today's hybrid work environment.
Employee milestones (66%, up from 64% in 2021)
Client and partner appreciation (52%, up from 49% in 2021)
Traditional holidays (49%, down from 55% in 2021)
Studies also show that 75% of employees expect gifts from their company, while 57% view gifts as symbols of gratitude. A substantial 78% experience boosted job satisfaction post receiving meaningful gifts, underscoring how gift-giving strengthens gratitude, appreciation, and positive workplace dynamics.
Why Start Now?
Custom branded boxes and merchandise require ~6+ weeks of production time, especially when considering creative conception, design, printing, assembly, kitting, and shipping. Getting a head start now ensures that your specialty gifts will be ready and delivered well before the holiday rush. We’ll provide a smooth creative process from the initial project discussion to your uniquely branded gifts delivered to your recipient’s doorsteps.
What’s Trending This Holiday Season
When it comes to holiday gifting, the possibilities are endless. At Good Time Creative, we offer a wide range of customizable items perfect for spreading holiday joy and keeping your brand top of mind. Here are just a few things to get the creative juices flowing:
Trend #1: Sustainable Materials
There has been a significant shift in attitudes towards sustainability and environmental impact across all industries. People are increasingly mindful of the products they use, the businesses they support, and their effects on the environment. Companies are taking notice, which is why sustainable gifts and packaging have emerged as one of the top corporate gifting trends for 2024.
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Say goodbye to plastic and embrace eco-conscious materials like recycled paper and biodegradable options for branded packaging. At GTC, we specialize in designing and manufacturing corrugated boxes. Consider eliminating unnecessary packaging layers by opting for a branded shipper-style box, reducing waste and streamlining your kitting process.
Reusable Swag: Choose practical company swag such as custom tote bags or branded reusable water bottles. These items not only promote your brand but also encourage reuse and recycling among recipients.
Trend #2: Small Business, Big Impact
People are passionate about bolstering local economies, fostering entrepreneurship, promoting inclusivity, and driving positive change. By championing small businesses, companies not only source unique gifts but also empower local economies and celebrate the richness of entrepreneurship.
Unique Products: Stand out with artisanal, small-batch items that make your gift boxes unique and memorable.
Inclusivity: Consider supporting a small business whose values align with your organization's values, whether it's Black-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, AAPI-owned, or other types. It's a win-win that resonates with both givers and recipients!
Trend #3: Quality over Quantity
Gone are the days of branded pens and notepads being the go-to gifts. In 2024, it's all about stepping up your game with high-quality, useful items. Organizations are opting for fewer yet more impactful gifts, allocating $100 or more for one-to-many corporate gifts. This highlights a shift towards organizations investing in a “quality vs. quantity” model, enhancing relationships and leaving a lasting impression!
$100-$125: 18%
$125-$150: 15%
$150+: 9%
At GTC, we specialize in crafting unique branded specialty swag that resonates with your brand's essence. Reach out today to schedule a brainstorming session! Together, we'll curate a selection of practical and unforgettable gifts for your clients and employees this holiday season.
Get Started Today!
Don't wait until the last minute to think about holiday gifting. Embrace the spirit of the holidays in July and start planning your end-of-year gifting with Good Time Creative today. Contact us to begin your holiday gifting journey and make this season truly unforgettable for your team members and customers.
Happy gifting from all of us at Good Time Creative!
References:
Snappy. (2023, November 16). New Study Reveals 75% of Employees Hope to Receive a Gift from Their Company This Holiday. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-study-reveals-75-of-employees-hope-to-receive-a-gift-from-their-company-this-holiday-301990333.html
Synchrony. (2022, June 9). Rapidly Growing Corporate Gifting Market Estimated to Reach $312 Billion by 2025 According to a New Study from Coresight Research and GiftNow. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rapidly-growing-corporate-gifting-market-estimated-to-reach-312-billion-by-2025-according-to-a-new-study-from-coresight-research-and-giftnow-301564280.html
