23 nicest gifts to give to your staff

Introduction

In the workplace, atmosphere is perhaps the most important thing of all. A variety of studies show that a good working environment contributes to motivated employees. And thus positive results. As a boss, you can achieve this by, for example, organizing a weekly Friday afternoon drink. And how much fun is it to organize a fun activity twice a year? To keep your employees at all friendly, a gift is an option that always helps. Therefore, in this article we tell you what to look out for when choosing gifts, and give you a list about the 20 nicest gifts to give to employees.

What should you look for when buying gifts for staff?

A good gift for staff is a token of appreciation and recognition for their commitment and contribution to the company. Every employee is different, and this is important to consider when determining the gift for your employees. Therefore, consider the following when choosing and giving an appropriate gift for employees:

• Relevance: Think about the relevance of your gift to your employees. Consider their interests, hobbies, or something related to their work.
• Personal touch: Add a personal touch to the gift, such as a handwritten card or a personalized item with the employee's name. This shows your staff that you paid attention to choosing the gift and makes it more special.
• Expressing appreciation: A good employee gift shows employees that their hard work and dedication is appreciated. This can be accomplished through a thank-you bill or a mention at a company event.
• Budget: Consider your budget when choosing gifts. You can still find meaningful gifts within a certain budget. The point is to show your appreciation, not the money you spend.
• Equality: Ensure equality among employees by giving gifts of similar value. This prevents feelings of inequality or jealousy and ensures that everyone feels valued.
• Cultural and religious sensitivities: Also consider your employees' cultural and religious backgrounds when choosing a gift. Avoid gifts that may be inappropriate or offensive to certain cultures or religions.
• Practical Use: If possible, choose a gift with practical use. This can be something the employee can use in his or her daily life, such as a functional gadget or a gift certificate to his or her favorite restaurant or store.
• Timing: Consider the right time to give your fun gifts. This can be during special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays or year-end celebrations.

When do you give a corporate gift to your employees?

There are several times during the year when you can show your appreciation for your staff in the form of a gift.

• Employee Day. Every employee is important, which is why Employee Day was created. Do you also celebrate it with your staff? The next employee day will be on April 17, 2025.
• Employee Birthday Gift. Giving a gift on an employee's birthday is of course super thoughtful and much appreciated.
• Christmas gift or year-end gift staff. This is, of course, a traditional time to thank your employees.
• New Year's gift staff. Some employers are also taking advantage of the new year to inspire their colleagues.
• Gift wedding colleague. Of course you want to celebrate this special moment with an original and beautiful gift.

Is VAT deductible on gifts to staff?

You cannot always deduct the VAT on business gifts, such as gifts to your employees. This is regulated by the "Exclusion of Deduction of Input Tax (BUA) Decree.

A gift to staff falls into the category of employee benefits for the tax authorities, which also includes, for example, housing, fitness and wages in kind. As an employer, you cannot deduct the VAT on these if:

• your employees, if they bought the gift themselves, could deduct less than 30% VAT, and
• you go over the threshold amount of €227 (excluding VAT) per beneficiary.

If the cost of your gift for your employees and other employee benefits stays under €227, then you may deduct the VAT. If you go over this amount, then the costs above the threshold amount are not deductible. You can find a more detailed explanation of these regulations on the website of the Tax Office.

Gift to staff and working expenses scheme (WKR)

The tax authorities consider a gift for your employees, such as a Christmas gift, to be wages in kind. The government has the Working Costs Regulation (WKR) which regulates that an employer may give untaxed allowances to employees. In 2024, the WKR allows an employer to give 1.92% up to a wage bill of €400,000 untaxed. If the total compensation to your staff, including this gift, does not exceed this threshold, you may therefore give the gift to your employees untaxed. Also visit the website of the Central Government for more information about the WKR.

23 nicest gifts to give to your staff

There are, of course, countless options you can think of. Some gifts may be somewhat obvious. Yet we believe that these are the very things that are in demand by average personnel. We've also come up with some trendier gifts that you might not think of 1, 2, 3 yourself. Here are our 5 favorite gifts:

1. Corporate Shirt

One of the coolest and most personal gifts you can give as a boss is a cool t-shirt. You can, of course, print a t-shirt in many ways. You can simply get a white shirt, having the company logo printed on the back. But how cool is it to have a really cool, fashionable one printed with a little quip somewhere about the company? That way, people are actually going to love wearing it, which will also make your name more prominent.

2. Gift Certificate

Many people these days enjoy a certain freedom. Where wealth and class used to be important, somehow that has now turned to freedom. If we take this very narrowly, then of course, giving an "open" gift fits in silently with this. With any gift certificate, you can choose what you want. You can give a gift certificate for something from Rituals, for example, or a gift certificate for an activity where you can choose from numerous options. This way, the employees actually get something out of the gift.

3. Bottle of wine

There is no doubt that people love an alcoholic refreshment. You can therefore choose to give a delicious bottle of wine as a gift. Then don't arrive with a 3 euro bottle, but make it real. For example, look at a bottle with an augmented reality label. Experience shows that people often drink such a bottle at a special moment. This can be a nice date, but also, for example, during a special night out with friends. This way, employees get an even better feeling about the company. Bet they will appreciate you even more on a personal level! Because as you know, alcohol does something to people.

4. Beer Package

You have wine lovers and beer lovers. You can make the latter category happy with an original beer package. There are many different specialty beers and so you can surprise even the most avid beer lovers with an original beer package. It is also possible to provide your beer box and labels with your company logo or other imprint. Not everyone drinks alcohol, of course, so it is good to know that more and more good non-alcoholic beers and wines are coming onto the market.

5. Coffee cup or drinking bottle

People are becoming more and more coffee lovers. Especially with all the "crap" you can throw in a cup these days. They prefer to hang around the coffee machine all day. Even during a walk, people still like to have something in their hands to drink. This can of course be a nice bakkie for the road, but a simple bottle of water is also more than fine. Apparently it is hip to have a coffee cup or drinking bottle. You can also have these accessories printed completely to your liking. The benefit of this is the same as with the t-shirt. The company name can get a lot of exposure with this option as well. At least you can be sure that the product will be used a lot.

6. Drink board

Nowadays, there are plenty of cutting or serving boards that add a great touch to the interior. How cool is it to have your name engraved on a wooden board that will be put on the table every week? On occasions like birthdays, soccer nights or just a small get-together, you can count on the fact that snacks will be served on the table. And why not do it in style? And then also with your name on them? Although it might be personal to engrave the name of the employee. We'll leave that choice up to you.

7. Laptop sleeve

A laptop sleeve is a stylish and practical gift that any employee will appreciate. This handy accessory not only protects their valuable laptop from scratches and bumps, but also adds a personal touch to their daily work. Choose a design that matches the company's corporate identity or go for a unique, personalized sleeve with the employee's name. With this thoughtful and useful gift, you show your appreciation while investing in protecting their work tool. A win-win situation for both the staff and the company!

8. Powerbank

A power bank as a gift for your employees is a smart and thoughtful gift that will really benefit your employees. In this always-connected world, a power bank ensures that your team never runs out of energy, whether they are on the road, working remotely, or in the office. With a portable charger, they can charge their smartphones, tablets and other devices, keeping them always accessible and productive. Choose a stylish power bank with the company logo to promote team spirit and togetherness. This innovative and practical gift is sure to please your employees and help them stay connected wherever they are!

9. Stylish laptop bags

A laptop bag is a perfect combination of functionality, style and appreciation for your employees' hard work. This handy accessory helps your team carry their laptops and other essential office supplies safely and organized, whether they're heading to the office, attending an off-site meeting or working from a coffee shop. Choose a high-quality laptop bag with the company logo to encourage team spirit and create a sense of belonging. A thoughtful and practical gift such as a laptop bag is sure to be appreciated by your staff

10. Plants

A plant is a refreshing and vibrant way to show appreciation for your employees' work. This green gift not only brings a touch of nature and tranquility to their workplace, but also creates a healthier work environment by improving air quality and reducing stress. Choose a low-maintenance plant suitable for both office and home environments, such as an air plant, succulent or pancake plant. Add a personalized card to express your appreciation and promote team spirit. A plant is a sustainable and eco-friendly gift that underscores the company's commitment to the well-being of its employees and the environment. Let your staff grow and prosper with this charming, green gift!

11. Luxury chocolate

A box of chocolates is a delicious and tasty gift for your staff. This sweet gift brings a smile to the faces of your team members and provides a moment of pure enjoyment during their busy workday. Choose high-quality artisan chocolates, in a variety of flavors and shapes, to provide an unforgettable taste experience. Add a personalized thank you card to strengthen team spirit and let your employees know how much you appreciate their efforts. With a tasty and thoughtful gift like chocolate, show your staff that their hard work does not go unnoticed and give them a well-deserved treat to enjoy.

12. Homework package

A home office kit is a thoughtful and practical way to support your employees in adjusting to working from home. This carefully curated package contains a selection of supplies and extras that make their home office more comfortable, efficient and enjoyable. Think ergonomic accessories, office supplies, healthy snacks and relaxing items such as a scented candle or stress ball.

13. Yoga mat

A yoga mat is an inspiring and health-promoting gift. This versatile mat invites your team members to pay attention to their physical and mental well-being, whether they practice yoga, stretch during their lunch break or exercise at home. Offering a yoga mat shows that you care about the health and well-being of your staff and encourage them to take time for themselves. Choose a high-quality, non-slip mat with the company logo to strengthen team spirit and promote togetherness. Add a personal note to express your appreciation and motivate them to incorporate healthy habits into their daily routine

14. Everyone loves a nice fragrance

Scented candles are great gifts to give to your employees. These fragrant gifts create an ambient and soothing environment both in the office and at home, allowing your team members to experience a moment of peace and well-being even during the most hectic workdays.

15. Inspirational books, biographies or bestsellers in their area of interest

A book as a staff gift is a timeless and meaningful way to show your appreciation for your team members. It is a gift that can be both educational and inspiring, inviting them to expand their horizons, explore and develop new ideas, both personally and professionally. Consider a book that matches your employees' interests, whether it's a motivational bestseller, a fascinating biography, a thought-provoking management book or an exciting novel.

16. Subscriptions to e-learning platforms such as Udemy, Coursera, or LinkedIn Learning

An online course as a gift for your employees is an innovative and stimulating way to show your appreciation and promote their personal growth. Offering an online course gives them the opportunity to expand their skills and knowledge, pursue their passions and contribute to the development of the company. Choose an online course that fits the interests and needs of your team members.

17. Tickets for workshops

A workshop is a dynamic and inspiring way to show your appreciation for your team members while promoting their development and collaboration. It offers them a unique opportunity to learn new skills, stimulate creativity and gain valuable insights while collaborating with their colleagues in a fun and relaxed environment.

18. A healthy lunchbox

A healthy lunchbox is a tasty and caring gift for your employees. This delicious gift encourages them to adopt healthy eating habits and provides a boost of energy and concentration during the workday. Choose a lunchbox filled with a variety of nutritious and tasty options, such as organic salads, homemade wraps, fresh fruits and nuts, and energizing snacks.

19. Time to relax

A relaxation package is a heartwarming and thoughtful gift for your employees. This carefully curated gift helps them relax and recharge after a long day at work, and provides a better work-life balance. Choose a package with a selection of soothing and invigorating items, such as aromatherapy oils, luxurious bath salts, soft face masks, a soft bathrobe or slippers, and calming herbal teas.

20. Kitchen gadgets

Kitchen gadgets as gifts for your staff are an original and functional way to show your appreciation for their dedication and hard work. This creative gift encourages them to explore their culinary skills, experiment with new recipes and enjoy cozy moments in the kitchen. You can choose from an array of fun and practical kitchen gadgets, such as an avocado slicer, a spiral slicer for vegetables, a multifunctional bottle opener, a smart digital kitchen scale or a set of reusable silicone lids.

21. Decorative accessories for their office or home office.

Decorative accessories for their office or home office as a gift for your employees to thank them for their efforts. This sophisticated gift helps them create a pleasant and inspiring work environment where they can feel motivated and productive. Consider tasteful and functional decorative accessories, such as an elegant pen holder, artistic wall decorations, a stylish desk lamp, a set of minimalist bookends or a vibrant desk plant.

22. Outdoor luxury beanbag

An outdoor beanbag from Laui Lounge is a unique and appreciated gift for employees because it promotes relaxation and comfort outside the office. It is a symbol of appreciation for their hard work, and encourages them to relax and enjoy their free time in nature or their own backyard. These beanbags are not only versatile and stylish, but also durable and suitable for a variety of outdoor environments. Giving a beanbag as a gift shows that you care about the well-being and quality of life of your team members, increasing their motivation and satisfaction at work.

23. Fitness package

New Year is the time of good intentions and many people want to start exercising (more) again. A fitness package is therefore an ideal end-of-year gift. This way, your employees can turn their good intentions into action. A fit employee is also happier and more productive. A win-win situation.

The right atmosphere in the workplace

You have read in this article about 23 cool gifts you could give to your employees as an employer. Once again, it is important that your staff is motivated, happy and goes through fire for you. After all, atmosphere is a part of the workplace that cannot be underestimated. Ask any employee and they will agree one by one. All you have to do is create the right conditions. And we have every confidence in that!