Finding the perfect Team Holiday Gifts can feel like walking a tightrope. You want to celebrate your team's hard work, show appreciation, and keep everyone happy, all while staying within budget. Gift cards are a practical and flexible option that makes it easy to achieve all this. In this article, you'll discover the best gift card options for employees to express their gratitude and end the year on a high note.
Giftpack can make your gifting even more memorable by allowing you to customize the gift cards to company branded swag. With a personalized touch, make your team feel appreciated and connected.
Why Bother With Employee Recognition And Rewards
Recognizing Employees Boosts Morale and Engagement
Employee recognition and rewards] play a crucial role in creating a positive and motivated work environment. Recognizing employees' hard work is more than just a nice gesture; it directly impacts morale and productivity.
When employees feel appreciated, they're happier and more engaged in their work. According to SurveyMonkey, 82% of employees report feeling significantly happier when they receive recognition. This happiness translates into better performance, stronger team dynamics, and an overall positive company culture.
Gifts Deepen Appreciation and Strengthen Loyalty
Gift-giving also deepens that sense of appreciation. In the 2023 Q4 Gift Card Gauge from Carat, 85% of employees said receiving a gift from their employer made them feel like a valued part of the company.
A sense of value can increase loyalty and retention, as employees are likelier to stick with a company that recognizes their contributions. Whether for a special occasion or a job well done, employee recognition and rewards help foster a culture of appreciation, boosting morale and reinforcing a strong connection between the company and its people.
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Are Gift Cards Good Gifts For Employees?
The Appeal of Gift Cards in Employee Gifting
Gift cards can be excellent gifts for employees, and here’s why: picking the perfect gift is often a struggle, especially when trying to please a diverse team. Company-branded t-shirts or mugs are fine, but they may not hit the mark in terms of personal appreciation.
This is where gift cards come in as a winning solution. Employees overwhelmingly favor gift cards because they offer freedom of choice. Research from the Incentive Research Foundation shows that 44.07% of employees say gift cards are the best rewards to receive, with another 27.12% agreeing they are good rewards.
Why Employees Love Gift Cards
A study by Blackhawk Network found that 90% of employees prefer gift cards over cash bonuses. This significant preference highlights how much flexibility matters to them.
Psychological studies back this up, showing that people tend to perform better when rewarded with something they desire, rather than cash. When you give a gift card, your staff can choose what they truly want or need, shop during sales for better value, and use it at their convenience. It’s personal, practical, and a powerful motivator all wrapped into one.
Custom AI-Powered Gift Selection Process
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless of whether the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
Open-loop vs Closed-loop Gift Cards
Open-Loop Gift Cards: Freedom to Choose
Open-loop gift cards are the versatile champions of the gift-giving world. They carry the logos of major networks like Visa or Mastercard and can be used almost anywhere these cards are accepted.
This is why they're often the go-to choice for employee gifts, as they grant recipients the freedom to choose exactly what they want. Whether it's a new gadget, a dinner out, or even just everyday essentials, these cards cover it all. Banks issues them and offer a level of utility that few other gifts can match.
Closed-Loop Gift Cards: A Personal Touch
When you know your team well, closed-loop gift cards can be a great way to show you care. These cards are specific to particular retailers or restaurants like Starbucks or Target.
They’re often accessible to activate and can be a meaningful gesture if you know the recipient likes to frequent that specific place. While they lack the versatility of open-loop cards, they make up for it by being more personal. If you know someone who loves their morning coffee ritual, a Starbucks card could just make their day.
35 Best Gift Cards For Employees To Feel Appreciated
1. Amazon gift card
For several reasons, the world’s biggest online retailer issues one of the best gift cards for employees. Amazon has an incredibly wide range of goods, from ebooks to laptops and shoes to home goods. With an Amazon e-gift card, any type of employee can browse through an endless catalog of products to find their ideal gift.
The Amazon retail experience, which features fast shipping and easy returns, makes these virtual gift cards even better. Beyond retail, the card can also be redeemed for Amazon’s streaming service, Amazon Prime, and their audiobook subscription, Audible. The Amazon gift card can be used at all online vendors that accept Amazon Pay, extending the ecosystem in which these virtual gift cards can be used. With such versatility, employers can confidently bulk-purchase Amazon gift cards.
2. Visa Reward Card
The best gift card for employees, the Visa gift card, is at the top of the list for employee appreciation presents for a few reasons. First, its wide acceptance and the freedom it provides to employees in choosing how to use the card. This open-loop rewards card can be used anywhere worldwide where Visa debit cards are accepted, making it one of the best gift cards for remote employees working abroad.
Besides, the card is highly secure and allows employees to pay without disclosing any financial details. Additionally, the card balance can be checked online. Besides the convenience and versatility of using the Visa network, another great feature of the Visa Reward Card is its customizability. Adding a company logo and design is simple, making for a personalized gift.
3. Mastercard prepaid gift card
Another payment network known for its credit cards, the Mastercard prepaid gift card is also a popular option for employee rewards due to its versatility. The card can be used anywhere that accepts Mastercard and is roughly as widely accepted as Visa.
For that reason, the Mastercard prepaid gift card is, too, one of the best gift cards for remote employees. Personalization is a key feature. Adding a company logo, design, and gift message adds a personal touch and gesture that goes a long way.
Comparison of Fees Between Prepaid and Closed-Loop Gift Cards
The Mastercard gift card is comparable to the Visa gift card in its usability, with slight differences in policy like expiration date and fees. It's important to note that both the Mastercard and Visa prepaid cards have associated purchase and possible activation fees and an expiration date.
Before deciding on either, employers need to compare these fees and the cards’ limitations. Many closed-loop cards don’t have such fees because the retailers lock the cards’ value in their commercial ecosystem.
4. Target gift card
Target is a trusted retailer offering a fantastic variety of products. Their gift cards are well-received due to the brand’s popularity and the absence of card expiry. While not as extensive as Amazon's, Target’s product range features a large, if not the whole spectrum, of consumer goods.
The retail giant offers products at reasonable prices and often offers discounts, increasing the purchasing power employees have with their Target gift cards. Unlike Amazon’s card, the Target gift card can be used in-store and online. This makes for a popular gift card offering more than a convenient online experience. It can also be a physical one.
5. Walmart gift card
Another retail giant, Walmart offers gift cards with many designs that mark special occasions and holidays. This personalization makes them the perfect gift cards for employee appreciation.
With a vast range of consumer goods, Walmart gift cards can be redeemed for products to anyone’s liking, in-store and online, through e-gift cards. This flexibility, Walmart’s lower prices, and the omnipresence of Walmart stores across the US make Walmart gift cards a popular option for employee gift cards.
6. Spotify
People love music. A Spotify gift card will give that employee who is always listening to music in their office or humming tunes more music. This choice works for employees with Spotify or anyone curious about the service. Give the gift of great music and podcasts with a Spotify gift card.
7. Netflix
A Netflix gift card is the perfect option for your employees who are couch potatoes and love to stay home and watch their favorite shows. It's great for someone who already has Netflix or for someone who is interested but hasn’t pulled the trigger yet!
8. Uber
Uber has been growing in popularity over the past years. An Uber gift card is the perfect gift for your employee who loves to go out on the weekends and needs that ride home. It is also great for employees who love to travel and may need that ride in a new city because they don’t have a car.
9. Apple
An Apple gift card is perfect for your tech-savvy employee. They can use it for new Apple products like AirPods and MacBooks or even purchase iCloud storage. Whatever it’s for, it will be a well-received option for your technology-loving employee!
10. DoorDash
A DoorDash gift card is the perfect gift for an employee who loves to eat and stay inside. It is a convenient and thoughtful gift that your employees will love!
11. Airbnb
Airbnb is the perfect gift card for your travel-ready employees. More and more people are choosing Airbnb over resorts for travel. An Airbnb gift card is also great for remote workers to go on a midweek vacation and work from a new location!
12. Starbucks
Everyone loves coffee! Every office has an employee who is obsessed with their iced coffees. A Starbucks gift card is the perfect gift to feed their coffee addiction. They may even use their gift card to buy you a coffee!
13. Barnes & Noble
Every office has an employee who is obsessed with reading. If they often come into work raving about the last book they read, they will appreciate a Barnes & Noble gift card. They will feel so appreciated and will love their new book!
14. Nike
Nike is a fantastic brand for an employee gift card. Personalize your Nike gift card for your athletic employee who loves to play in adult recreational leagues on weeknights. If you have a golf player in your office, a Nike gift card can purchase them a new polo!
15. The Home Depot
If you have an employee who has recently bought a new home or is going through a remodel, The Home Depot is the perfect gift card for them. Help them achieve their goals for their dream home!
16. TJ Maxx
A TJ Maxx gift card is the perfect option for an employee who loves fashion but at a low price. Because of its reduced prices, a gift card will go far at TJ Maxx. They can get a new outfit or buy home goods for their home!
17. Marshall’s
Marshall’s is a similar option to TJ Maxx for your employees. Great brands at low prices can give them a new wardrobe with a Marshall’s gift card. Get it for your employees who are obsessed with shopping and buying new clothes!
18. GrubHub
A GrubHub gift card is perfect for your employees who love to stay inside and chill out. They can order their favorite food and have it delivered to their door—to their home or to work for lunch!
19. Hulu
Hulu is an option for those employees who love to stay in and watch movies and shows. Hulu has lots of different streaming options for your employees to choose from. They will not be disappointed with a Hulu gift card!
20. Disney+
Every office has an employee who is obsessed with Disney. A Disney+ gift card will give them the gift they’ve always wanted: unlimited access to the best Disney shows and movies.
21. Olive Garden
If you have an employee who loves to go out to eat and is obsessed with pasta, then an Olive Garden gift card is the perfect option. Unlimited soup, salad, or a big plate of pasta will make anybody happy!
22. Texas Roadhouse
Your steak-loving employee will love a Texas Roadhouse gift card! Their unforgettable rolls and cinnamon butter to start, a salad, and a steak will make anyone’s night better.
23. Cold Plunge Tub
A cold plunge tub is the hottest new way to improve mental and physical health. Give your employees one to show how much you appreciate them, or buy one for the office.
24. Best Buy gift card
A trusted name in the U.S. consumer market, Best Buy is a major retailer specializing in consumer electronics. The retailer offers a wide range of tech and electronic products, including smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles, in-store and online.
Employees well-receive Best Buy gift cards due to the brand’s reputation and the wide variety of products it offers. The cards can be redeemed at hundreds of Best Buy retail locations or online.
25. Playstation gift card
If your employee is a gamer, determine whether they own a Playstation. If they do, there is no more fun and personal gift card than a PlayStation Store gift card. Recipients with a Playstation account will be able to add funds to their PlayStation Network (PSN) wallet, which can be used to purchase a wide variety of digital content from the PlayStation Store. This includes games, memberships, season passes, movies, and more.
26. Nordstrom gift card
Whether for the office or a night out, Nordstrom gift cards can be redeemed for a fashionable outfit. The popular department store stocks a wide range of fashion brands and has over 350 stores in the U.S., making their gift cards versatile and easily redeemable for a shopping experience. Nordstrom gift cards don’t expire, adding to their appeal.
27. Crypto Voucher
Crypto Voucher is a platform that lets employees instantly buy various cryptocurrencies with Crypto Voucher gift cards and various other major payment methods.
Not only can crypto be bought smoothly and user-friendly, but gift cards can be purchased in bulk through a seamless gift card API, making it a solid employee reward option for employers operating in a field where blockchain interest is relatively high.
28. DSW
DSW is a popular destination for fashion-forward shoppers looking for high-quality designer footwear at unbeatable prices. With a wide selection of shoes from some of the biggest names in the industry, DSW offers something for everyone. From classic styles to the latest trends, DSW has it all.
29. Express
Express is the ultimate clothing destination for modern fashion lovers. From its signature collections that feature elegant evening wear and sophisticated workwear to athleisure pieces that keep you comfy and stylish, Express has something for everyone. Its versatile collections allow you to create looks for any occasion, whether you prefer to dress up or down.
30. H&M
H&M is a Swedish multinational clothing-retail company known for its affordable fashion. From basics to statement items, H&M offers various stylish options for every budget. With locations in over 50 countries worldwide and an impressive online presence, H&M continues to be one of the top retailers in the industry.
31. Xbox
Xbox is the ultimate gaming console, providing gamers with an immersive experience that brings their wildest dreams to life. With its advanced technology, Xbox allows players of all kinds to explore vast virtual worlds, create their digital avatars, and challenge each other in thrilling online tournaments.
32. Athleta
Athleta is an athletic wear company specializing in comfortable, stylish apparel designed to help active individuals perform their best. Athleta has various options to suit any activity, from workout and training clothes to everyday clothes for running errands.
33. Fitbit
Fitbit is revolutionizing the way we stay active and track our health. This powerful device provides a personal coach that tracks your activity, sleep, diet, and more in real-time to keep you on pace with your fitness goals. Fitbit helps you be mindful of what you eat and when so you can make healthier decisions. It also has advanced features like heart rate tracking and calorie-burning goal tracking for those looking to challenge themselves and optimize their performance.
34. Harry & David
Show your employees appreciation by giving them a gift card to Harry & David. This company provides gift baskets of fruits, chocolates, sweets and wine. Your employees will also enjoy gourmet foods such as charcuterie boards and nuts. These delicious snacks will be a favorite to munch on during work or while relaxing at home.
35. Panera Bread
Bagels, soup, sandwiches, oh my! Some of the best gifts involve food, and Panera is always a premium choice when lunchtime rolls around. It’s a great way to say thanks when buying bulk gifts with a limited budget.
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The Importance of Choosing The Right Partner for Gift Cards
Finding the right gift card provider is more important than you might think. It’s a decision that can significantly impact the overall experience, for both you and your employees.
Gift card providers vary in brand selection, ease of use, customer service, and pricing. Some may offer a wide range of favored brands, while others might have limited options that don’t quite match your employees’ preferences. It’s crucial to select a partner that offers gift cards for brands your team will appreciate and use.
Pricing is Another Key Factor
Some providers charge fees for purchasing or delivering gift cards, which can add up quickly, especially if you order in bulk. You’ll want to ensure you get a fair deal without hidden fees that could take away from the reward.
Equally Important is the User Experience
The process should be smooth, from purchasing to delivering the cards. Redeeming your employees' rewards should be easy and hassle-free. Imagine the frustration if someone gets a gift card but encounters technical issues or can’t find support when needed. A reliable provider with responsive customer support can make all the difference in creating a positive experience.
Security Matters
You want to ensure that you and your employees feel confident that the gift cards are safe and secure. When you choose the right partner, the reward experience becomes both rewarding and stress-free, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Are Gift Cards Taxable?
Gift cards seem like a simple way to show appreciation to your team, but the IRS sees them differently. They consider gift cards taxable. If you hand out gift cards, it's not just a kind gesture; it's income. You must report them as earnings, which can affect your team’s taxes.
The De Minimis Fringe Benefit: A Potential Loophole
There are exceptions to this rule. If you're giving out small holiday gifts, like a mug or a fruit basket, you might be able to use the De Minimis Fringe Benefit. This lets you exclude low-value, infrequent gifts from your team’s income. But don’t get too excited. Cash and gift cards don’t qualify.
Keeping It Clean: The Importance of Accurate Records
When it comes to taxes, accuracy is everything. Make sure your accountant tracks every cent. Have multiple steps in place to ensure your tax forms are correct. This can save you a lot of headaches down the road.
FAQs on Best Gift Cards for Employees
The Perfect Amount: How Much Should You Spend on Employee Gift Cards?
Choosing the right amount for employee gift cards can be tricky. The sweet spot usually falls between $25 and $100. Why the range? A $25 card works well for minor recognitions or as part of a larger gift package.
But when celebrating big moments like holidays or appreciation events, you'll want to aim closer to $50 or $100. It's about finding that balance where the gift feels meaningful without going overboard.
Picking the Right Card: What’s a Good Gift Card for Coworkers?
Find a card that matches your coworker’s interests. Popular options include Amazon for its limitless choices, Starbucks for the coffee fanatics, and DoorDash or Grubhub for those hectic workdays when cooking isn’t an option. Target and Walmart cards offer a little of everything, while Visa and Mastercard provide the ultimate flexibility. Know your coworker’s tastes, and you’ll hit the mark.
Top of the Charts: Which Gift Cards Are Most Popular?
Some gift cards stand out from the rest. Amazon cards are a hit for their versatility. Coffee enthusiasts love Starbucks cards. Visa and Mastercard cards offer spending freedom that’s hard to beat. DoorDash cards are especially popular with remote workers who crave the ease of food delivery. These choices win because they cater to a wide range of preferences.
Build A Meaningful Employee Recognition Program With Ease with Giftpack's Client Gifting Service
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless of whether the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
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