Top Employee Appreciation Gifts for 2025
Employee Appreciation Day is the First Friday of March: March 7th, 2025
Shop Employee GiftsEmployee Appreciation Day is the perfect occasion for managers of all levels to show their gratitude for their employees with great employee appreciation gifts. Successories has a wide variety of exclusive, high-quality employee recognition gifts for your appreciation program. With employee appreciation gift ideas from thank you gifts and desk accessories to drinkware and lapel pins, we have corporate gift ideas for everyone on your team.
Acknowledge your employees with personalized staff appreciation day gift ideas, or give them fun motivational gifts that recognize their hard work.
Get ready for Employee Appreciation Day by browsing our selection of hundreds of ideas for gifts of appreciation for employees now. Check back regularly to see what gift ideas we've added, including new gifts for employees.
Why is Employee Appreciation Important?
Recognizing your team with staff appreciation gifts is more than just gift-giving; it’s a key part of building a thriving workplace. Our employee appreciation gift ideas come from a genuine desire to recognize and celebrate your team’s contributions. When you show appreciation, employees feel more engaged, motivated, and committed to their roles. Thoughtful appreciation gifts for employees, whether small tokens of gratitude or premium corporate appreciation gifts, help foster loyalty and boost morale. A well-planned staff appreciation gift strengthens relationships, enhances job satisfaction, and reinforces each employee's value to the company.
Here are some of the benefits of employee appreciation gifts.
Higher Employee Retention
Retaining top talent starts with making employees feel valued. When you recognize hard work with gifts of appreciation for employees, you show them that their contributions matter. Investing in company appreciation gifts helps boost employee morale, foster loyalty, and create a workplace where people want to stay. By taking the time to reward employees, you can strengthen engagement, reduce turnover, and build a committed, motivated team.
Better Performance
Employees who feel valued are more engaged, productive, and committed to their work. Regarding a recognition gift, ideas include personalized awards or practical tokens of appreciation, reinforcing hard work and dedication. By showing appreciation with meaningful associate appreciation gifts, you create a culture that motivates employees to perform at their best. In any workplace, employee appreciations gifts serve as a meaningful way to express gratitude, recognize dedication, and boost morale.
Company Culture
Employee appreciation gifts that make employees feel appreciated and valued are great for building company culture. Employee gifts, like personalized awards or company swag featuring the company logo, help reinforce a sense of belonging and pride. Giving great employee appreciation gifts fosters stronger relationships, promotes teamwork, and encourages a positive, collaborative workplace. When appreciation is part of the culture, employees are more engaged, supportive, and motivated to contribute to the company's success.
23 Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas
What makes a good employee appreciation gift for your team members? The perfect idea will express gratitude while celebrating employees and their achievements with your company. Wanting to give great employee appreciation gifts this year? Make them feel appreciated with one of the following gifts from our list below.
1. Desk Accessories
Desk accessories serve as meaningful employee recognition gifts, recognizing each person's contributions. They add a personal touch to workspaces and highlight the value of every team member. From grow kits and plants to paperweights, these tokens of appreciation will be constant reminders of your thanks.
2. Bags & Totes
Tote bags and company gift bags are great employee appreciation gifts that demonstrate your gratitude and can be used practically daily. They're practical, make employees feel valued, and feature the company's logo, serving as a thoughtful way to create a sense of belonging and boost morale.
3. Drinkware & Bottles
Tell them "Thanks for all you do" with every sip, from a ceramic coffee mug to stainless steel bottles. Add in a gift card to their favorite coffee shop to make this a great employee gift.
4. Stress Relievers & Games
In a modern office, stress relievers make the perfect gifts, helping reduce stress and increase creativity. Our exclusive fun, motivational gifts include games, toys & much more that will allow them to destress and have fun at work..
5. Gift Sets
Make employees feel really appreciated and give them even more with affordable gift baskets and bundles. A gift box allows you to create unique employee gifts with multiple items from this list. Whether you want to include desk accessories, company swag, or anything else, these gift baskets can be tailored to the employee's interests and help honor them for working hard.
6. Personalized Gifts
Personalized employee appreciation gifts are the perfect way to connect with your staff. From engraved keepsakes to vases and clocks, make your gift personal by engraving names, dates, and even your company logo. Add that personal touch to your gifts this year and show your entire team how much they mean to your organization.
7. Tech Accessories
Tech accessories make practical and thoughtful gifts that enhance productivity. These items help employees stay connected and comfortable while tackling their tasks. A tech accessory is a great gift for remote employees, bridging the gap between home and office and showing your appreciation for their adaptability and hard work.
8. Pens & Pen Sets
Functional and fun, pens are some of the best employee appreciation gifts and make great additions to the office! Used every day, your employees will treasure them. If you can't decide on the perfect gift, you can be sure that many employees will appreciate a good pen.
9. Journals & Notebooks
A great way to keep your appreciation in their hands, our journals and notebooks are extremely practical items that are beautifully decorated with phrases of appreciation and can be customized to create a one-of-a-kind personalized employee gift.
10. Eco-Friendly Gifts
Great gift ideas for employee appreciation don't need to add to your carbon footprint. Businesses can embrace eco-friendly gifts, demonstrating care for employees and the environment.
11. Remote Employee Gift Boxes
Curated gift boxes are a creative way to show appreciation for remote employees, turning the challenge of distance into an opportunity for connection. These thoughtfully assembled packages bring a personal touch to their home office. By surprising your team with these fun and engaging corporate appreciation gifts, you demonstrate that their efforts are valued, no matter where they work.
12. Lapel Pins
Lapel pins are a stylish and meaningful way to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day. These small but impactful tokens serve as lasting keepsakes, recognizing individual achievements and milestones. Whether customized with company branding or tailored to specific accomplishments, lapel pins add a touch of flair while showing employees that their contributions truly matter.
13. Year End and Holiday Gifts
Employee appreciation is an ongoing effort, and year-end holiday gifts provide the perfect opportunity to celebrate a year of hard work and success. Thoughtful corporate gifts spread holiday cheer and express gratitude to your team. These gestures not only recognize their dedication but also leave a lasting impression, reminding employees that their contributions are valued as you head into a new year together.
14. Trophies or Plaques
Trophies and plaques are timeless symbols of recognition, offering a tangible way to celebrate employee achievements. Customizing these awards with the recipient's name and a description of their accomplishment adds a personal touch that enhances their significance. Whether displayed at work or at home, these keepsakes serve as enduring reminders of your appreciation and their hard-earned success.
15. Logo Swag and Branded Apparel:
Logo swag and branded apparel are versatile and popular options for employee appreciation gifts. Personalized items, such as clothing in company colors embroidered with the logo and employee names, foster a sense of belonging and pride. Custom merchandise like tote bags, caps, or water bottles can also be practical and stylish additions to everyday life. These gifts not only celebrate your team members but also strengthen your organization's identity and camaraderie.
16. Gift Cards
Gift cards are a versatile and highly appreciated way to recognize employees' hard work. By choosing options from popular retailers or local favorites, you allow team members the flexibility to pick something they truly enjoy. Whether it's a treat for themselves or a practical purchase, gift cards show your thoughtfulness while empowering employees to celebrate in their own way.
17. Wellness Packages
Wellness packages are a thoughtful way to support your employees' health and relaxation. Arrange vouchers for local spas, massage therapists, or wellness services, allowing team members to unwind and recharge. These gifts show that you value their well-being, helping them balance work and personal care while reinforcing your appreciation for their hard work.
18. Personalized Clocks and Timepieces
Stylish clocks and timepieces make elegant and lasting gifts recognizing employees' contributions. Whether it's a sleek desk clock, a modern wall piece, or a classic wristwatch, these items are both functional and symbolic. Adding a personal touch, such as an engraving with the employee's name or a meaningful message, turns them into cherished keepsakes that express your appreciation in a timeless way.
19. Online Subscription Services
Online subscription services offer employees a unique and personalized way to show appreciation. Whether it's a music streaming service, an audiobook or e-book platform, access to online courses for professional development, or a video streaming subscription for relaxation, these gifts provide value beyond the workplace. Subscriptions cater to diverse interests, giving employees the freedom to choose what enhances their lives, whether for learning, entertainment, or self-care. It's a thoughtful gesture that keeps giving long after receiving the gift.
20. Gourmet Food Baskets
Gourmet food baskets are a delightful way to indulge employees while showing appreciation. Carefully assembled with high-quality treats, these baskets offer a tasteful experience that employees can enjoy with family or friends. Personalizing the contents to suit different tastes adds an extra touch, making the gift feel special and thoughtful. It's a perfect way to thank your team with a little luxury and a lot of flavor.
21. Ergonomic Office Equipment
Ergonomic office equipment prioritizes both comfort and productivity. Items like adjustable chairs, standing desks, ergonomic keyboards, and supportive footrests can improve posture and reduce physical strain, helping employees stay comfortable during long work hours. By providing these tools, you show that you care about their well-being and want to create a work environment that supports their health, leading to happier, more productive team members.
22. Fitness Trackers or Gym Memberships
Fitness trackers and gym memberships are excellent gifts for promoting health and wellness among employees. A fitness tracker can motivate employees to stay active and monitor their progress, while a gym membership offers access to local fitness centers or wellness programs. These gifts show your commitment to supporting a healthy work-life balance, encouraging employees to prioritize their physical well-being.
23. Donation to a Charity
Making a donation to a charity in an employee's name is a deeply meaningful way to show appreciation while giving back to the community. By supporting an important cause to the employee, you demonstrate that you value their personal passions and values. This thoughtful gesture not only recognizes their hard work but also empowers them to contribute to something larger than themselves, making the gift both impactful and memorable.
Ideas for How to Celebrate Employee Appreciation Day
Employee Appreciation Day is a time when your business can come together to commemorate the exemplary effort your team has shown at their jobs and use employee appreciation gift ideas to recognize achievements. This is a company-wide event that goes beyond birthdays and work anniversaries.
Hosting a special event and giving staff appreciation gifts create long-lasting results that improve morale, keep employees motivated, and strengthen relationships among co-workers.
Whether big or small, appreciation gifts for employees recognize their efforts and can create meaningful moments that inspire your staff.
Here are some ideas for making your next Employee Appreciation Day special, as you think about ideas for employee appreciation gifts.
Hold a Luncheon
The best company appreciation gifts for employees don't have to be a physical reminder. Besides keeping stomachs fueled and happy, a company lunch offers ample opportunities for socializing, which your staff will enjoy. Business leaders can mingle with staff and express thanks for a job well done, while everyone enjoys a well-deserved break in the day.
Throw a Party
A social get-together at work or after-hours gives employees the chance to bond with co-workers and have some memorable fun. You may even allow them to invite their significant others and children to the event to make it more inclusive and help team members bond on a deeper level. Party theme ideas include an office Olympics, a luau, or a casino night. Create games during the party that promote teamwork, and offer rewards that emphasize making a difference or playing an essential part to complement the goal of employee appreciation.
Give Gifts That Keep on Giving
Besides reducing turnover rates, thoughtful Employee Appreciation Day gift ideas can serve as constant reminders of your thanks while also being practical. Items like mouse pads or pens are gifts your employees will love using and that will continue to bring smiles to their faces long after they've received them. Wherever these gifts are displayed, they also show others that you value employees, too.
Make It One-of-a-Kind
Gifts for employees that are truly special will be cherished. A custom photo gift or plaque can spotlight an exciting moment from the employee's career, or you can add the receiver's name to a precious item like a personalized clock. Seeing one's name on a gift makes an employee more likely to hold on to it for years to come and proudly display it for others.
8 Employee Appreciation Event Ideas
In addition to thoughtful gift ideas for Employee Appreciation Day, simple acts of recognition are a fantastic way to celebrate and honor your team's hard work. Here are some creative ideas to commemorate your team's dedication and create lasting memories.
1. Bring a box of doughnuts or snacks for employees.
Offer a sweet surprise to show appreciation, and consider pairing it with a “Donut I'd Do Without You” punny note.
2. Offer to buy an employee a cup of coffee.
Accompany the gesture with a customized mug to make it even more special.
3. Write a handwritten thank-you note. Be genuine and specific with the message.
For an added touch, include thoughtful desk accessories to show your appreciation.
4. Give a speech and say "thank you" to one or a group of employees all at once.
After your speech, present each employee with a thank you gift to commemorate the moment.
5. Create a certificate of appreciation for everyone in the office.
Pair certificates with certificate frames to proudly display their achievements.
6. Offer some free time, such as extra time for lunch or to leave for home early.
Enhance this perk with a stress reliever gift to encourage a well-deserved break.
7. Bring in pizza or host a potluck.
Make the event memorable with branded tableware for a festive touch.
8. Bring baked goods and treats to your next weekly morning round table.
Add a special element with containers they can take home for a delightful start to the day.
Appreciating employees shouldn't be limited to a single day each year. Use these ideas year-round whenever you want to reward employees or show your appreciation.
How to Create a Successful Employee Appreciation Day
Organizing an Employee Appreciation Day that truly resonates with your team is easier than you might think. By following a few simple steps, you can design an event that not only shows gratitude but also strengthens bonds and boosts morale. From selecting the right activities to personalizing your approach, here's how to create a memorable and meaningful Employee Appreciation Day that your team will love.
Set Aside Money in Your Budget.
When you plan your company budget at the start of the year, set aside money for staff appreciation gift ideas. You don't want to have to sacrifice these costs because you don't have the funds due to poor planning. Without employee recognition, your company is at risk of seeing a loss in engagement and productivity. Give staff a reason other than a paycheck to work hard. Have money ready to invest in events like an Employee Appreciation Day party. Select employee gifts under $10 or expand your budget to gifts under $25.
Send Out Sufficient Notice
In an email or company announcement, inform staff of the date and time of the event so you can maximize participation. This will allow them to plan ahead, whether it means leaving that hour open or planning to come into the office that day if they work remotely.
Leverage Vendor loyalty
A lot of companies have a local restaurant they turn to for lunch meetings and company events. It often is advantageous to use the same establishment for catered functions, as many restaurants offer discounts for loyal customers. You can also rest assured that the food is high-quality, and the service is reliable.
Choose an All-Inclusive Menu
If you're serving food to employees, consider all types of diets and food preferences as you submit your order entry. Send out an email a few days before the event and ask if anyone has any food allergies. Have vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other options to accommodate all tastes and dietary needs.
Proper planning and the intent to make sure everyone has a great time during an employee appreciation event increase your chance of success.
Employee Appreciation Speech Ideas
As a business leader, thanking and motivating employees personally through a quick speech at a company lunch or event can benefit morale. Make sure you cover these bases to ensure you're delivering an inspiring speech that will keep your team working through even the biggest of challenges.
Lay Out Specific Points Ahead of Time
Chances are good that you have a few specific points you want to get across during your speech. These may include briefly summarizing the company's goals and noting certain benchmarks your team has met and how they've helped the business. Highlight these beforehand so you don't end up forgetting to mention something important. This will also help you to keep your speech short and sweet.
Emphasize Success Through Real Stories
Research shows employees are more likely to be engaged with their work when their leaders are. A passionate, engaged leader will take note of both individual successes and those made by the company as a whole. Show your enthusiasm and engagement by mentioning two or three specific stories where your team excelled and staff members made individual achievements. This will make it known that you recognize your business wouldn't be where it is without this commitment from its employees and that good work never goes unnoticed.
Make Goals Personal and Specific
Talking about the potential you see in your company is a key point to make in your speech. However, it's not going to hit home for your audience unless you make it personal. Explain that you're excited about how specific products or projects are going to drive the company's success and how. Emphasizing your confidence will also show your staff the trust and faith you have in them. Explain that you have high expectations because you know you have a team that is talented enough to not only meet, but exceed them.
Research shows employees are likely to leave a company because of poor leadership. As a manager or business owner, you are the one your employees look to for direction and motivation. After you've expressed clear goals for your team and recognized key players in the company's success, it helps to note how proud you are of your staff as a whole, the confidence you have in them and their abilities, and how excited you are to continue leading them.
Convey Gratitude With Employee Appreciation Day Gifts
You've learned why it's important to have an Employee Appreciation Day and how to make it effective for the management team and employees. However you choose to celebrate, giving out employee appreciation gifts is a way for employees to have a real token of your gratitude that they can hold on to, show off to friends and family members, and use in the future to be reminded of how much they appreciate your business. Start planning by checking out a wide variety of staff appreciation gift ideas here.
Answers to Your Questions about Employee Appreciation Day
What is Employee Appreciation Day?
Employee Appreciation Day is an annual event where employers recognize and thank their employees for their hard work and dedication.
When is Employee Appreciation Day?
Employee Appreciation Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday in March. It is a special day dedicated to recognizing and thanking employees for their hard work and contributions.
Why is Employee Appreciation Day important?
Employee Appreciation Day is important because it boosts morale, increases engagement, and shows employees that their efforts are valued, which can lead to higher productivity and retention rates.
How can I celebrate Employee Appreciation Day?
You can celebrate Employee Appreciation Day by organizing a special event, giving personalized gifts, writing thank-you notes, or offering extra time off. Browse our employee appreciation gifts for more ideas.
What are some unique gift ideas for Employee Appreciation Day?
Some unique gift ideas include personalized awards, custom mugs, branded office supplies, and relaxation gift sets. Check out our unique employee gifts for more inspiration.
How can I make Employee Appreciation Day more meaningful?
To make Employee Appreciation Day more meaningful, personalize your recognition efforts by acknowledging individual achievements, involving the entire team in celebrations, and providing thoughtful and customized gifts. Explore our personalized recognition products to add a special touch.