Quality, discretion, versatility, and wellness are the headline trends for corporate holiday gifts in 2026.
When it comes to what to get people as company gifts, versatile items and low-key wellness gifts are trending this year. So, what does that mean? Versatile means that people can use it during their daily routines, not just in the office. Durable tumblers, mugs, tech, and bags are great examples of items that people can use throughout their day as well as take with them when they travel.
Low-key wellness items are the type of items that show you value self-care and well-being without broadcasting signals that could be interpreted as judgmental or critical. Think cozy blankets and robes, candles and grow kits, spa essentials, or even well-crafted games that bring people together offline.
Let’s talk a little about quality next, because it’s possibly the most important factor in this year’s gift giving. There’s still a place in your marketing plan for affordable swag with your brand prominently featured, but we recommend leveling up your game when you’re giving a gift to your customers, employees, or leadership to express your appreciation for their business or service.
If you’re handing out items like pens, highlighters, stress balls, or drawstring bags to promote your business, it makes sense to order in large quantities at budget friendly prices. But when you’re ordering corporate gifts, you should pivot your approach to higher quality items made of durable and sustainable materials, especially since you’re not shopping for as many people. Instead of the cookies with your logo on them, think curated gift baskets or charcuterie boards. Instead of drawstring bags, think well-constructed backpacks or laptop bags.
A drawstring bag with a logo emblazoned on it is a great giveaway at a festival, concert, or sporting event when people need something to store their stuff in (because they didn’t bring along their clear tote bag!), but it’s likely only going to get used once or twice. If you give someone a nice bag they can use for work, travel, and everyday needs that will stand the test of time, they are much more likely to keep it, use it, and appreciate it.
For corporate gifts it’s also important to be discreet in how much you’re promoting your own business, if you promote it at all, on the gifts you give to others. Unless someone is your biggest brand cheerleader, or having something with your logo on it is a status symbol, people often don’t want to use items that have prominent company names or logos on them.
If you still want to brand these items, there are subtle ways to do so that the people you give them to still want to use your gift without being a walking advertisement for your brand. The first is to put your logo in a more discreet location, like on the sleeve or below the back of the collar on a polo shirt, or on a side pocket of a backpack.
Size matters too, with smaller logos winning the day. A small logo on the corner of a charcuterie board or next to the snapback portion of a ballcap is enough of a reminder to the recipient of who the gift came from but isn’t intrusive.
You can also blend your logo in with the gift, matching the color of the item exactly or closely so that it takes a sharp eye to notice it. This works well when you can emboss or embroider an item, and it is a classy way to incorporate your brand on a quality piece.
Moving, removing, or shrinking your logo also creates the opportunity to personalize items for recipients. Adding a customer or employee’s name or initials, or including a special message helps make the gift truly one-of-a-kind and shows the person how much you value your relationship.
Finally, don’t overlook timeliness and presentation. Many people may be in and out of the office before the actual holidays because they’re hosting parties, getting prepared to welcome family members to town, or traveling out of town to celebrate. This means it’s a good idea to distribute corporate gifts several weeks before Christmas to avoid holiday closures and absences.
Presentation is important because it shows attention to detail. If something is breakable, it may be best to keep it in its original packaging, but wrapping a box, putting a gift in a festive gift bag, or curating a tasteful gift basket shows a customer, employee, or board member that they’re worth going the extra mile for.
If you’re ready to start looking at possible gift options, get started at our page for holiday and corporate gifts! Broadstroke’s promo team also provides concierge service, suggesting gift ideas based on your needs and budget. They also offer gift wrapping! Reach out at promoinfo@broadstrokeinc.com or 316.247.5348 to get started.
