Every year, businesses pour substantial resources into holiday gift programs, investing anywhere from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Yet, without proper planning, many find themselves scrambling at the last minute, grabbing uninspired gifts from big-box stores or ordering online without much thought. The result? A return on investment (ROI) that falls far short of expectations. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With a little strategic planning, you can transform your client’s gift program into a powerful tool that strengthens relationships, boosts their brand, and delivers exceptional ROI.
Sharing this simple step-by-step process with your clients will make their gift program both easy and effective:
1. Choose the Right Food Gift Provider
The gifts you send to clients, partners, and employees are a direct reflection of your company’s values and standards. Don’t settle for impersonal, pre-packaged gifts from big-box stores. Instead, opt for a provider who offers high-quality, carefully curated gifts that represent your brand’s excellence. Remember, nothing says “we care” less than a lackluster gift, and nothing wastes your budget more.
Partnering with an FDA-inspected provider ensures the highest standards in food handling, labeling, and packaging—so your gifts aren’t just appreciated, but remembered.
2. Stay Informed on Facts and Trends
According to Packaged Facts, a leading market research firm, the corporate consumable gift industry is worth over $7.2 billion. This reflects the value companies place on thoughtful gift-giving. The same report notes that 43% of buyers prioritize attractive, aesthetically pleasing packaging, while 56% say quality is the most critical factor. Investing in beautifully packaged, high-quality gifts is not just a nice touch—it’s essential to maximizing your impact.
3. Leverage a Distributor for Expert Guidance
Our gifts are available exclusively through promotional products and gift basket distributors, making your job easier. These experts can guide you in selecting the perfect gifts, managing distribution, and handling all details from greeting cards to mailing lists. It’s a stress-free way to ensure your gifts hit the mark.
4. Review and Refine Last Year’s Program
Take a moment to reflect on last year’s gift program. What worked? What didn’t? What could be improved? By evaluating these aspects, you can make this year’s program even more successful. Distributors are experienced in troubleshooting and can help you address any challenges.
5. Select the Right Gifts for Your Audience
Consider your recipients. Are they individuals working remotely? Choose gifts like charcuterie packages, smoked meats, or other family-friendly options. If you’re targeting office environments, go for shareable gourmet towers that foster camaraderie.
Size matters too. Sending a small box of chocolates to an office of 30 doesn’t cut it. Make sure your gifts are appropriately sized to meet the needs of their recipients, ensuring there’s enough to go around.
6. The Power of Food Gifts
Why food? Because everyone loves great food. It’s memorable, shareable, and enjoyable — qualities that make food gifts the perfect choice for building positive, lasting impressions.
7. Add a Personal Touch with Branded Gifts
A gift that carries your company’s logo adds a personal touch and reinforces your brand long after the treats are gone. Consider branded items that recipients will keep, like cutting boards, desk accessories, or collectible pieces.
8. Always Sample Before You Buy
Don’t be swayed by beautiful pictures alone — insist on tasting an actual sample before committing to a large order. Seeing and sampling your gift beforehand ensures you’re delivering top quality and excellence.
9. Choose the Best Distribution Method
Delivering gifts in person is ideal, but not always feasible. Consider shipping from your facility for smaller orders or let the vendor handle shipping for larger or perishable items. This ensures gifts arrive on time and in perfect condition.
Invest in Experience, Not Just Gifts
Giving a thoughtful, high-quality gift is about creating an experience that your recipients will cherish. When done right, it leaves a lasting positive impression that far outlasts the holiday season, maximizing your ROI and reinforcing your brand’s value.
Download Our Holiday Gift Guide Now and Share with Your Clients!
