As the corporate world gears up for end-of-year celebrations, gifting has evolved from a last-minute gesture to a strategic tool for brand engagement, employee recognition and client loyalty.
Across Australia and New Zealand, businesses are reimagining what it means to gift well. This shift places promotional products suppliers and distributors in a prime position to offer smart, stylish and on-trend solutions that deliver real impact.
Here are the top five corporate gifting trends transforming the industry and how promo professionals can lead the charge.
Intentional gifting is now the gold standard. Branded products remain a powerful tool, especially when selected with purpose and care. Today’s clients and employees value gifts that feel personal, meaningful and aligned with values like appreciation, wellbeing and connection.
Gifting Examples:
• DIY recipe kits with branded cards, quality ingredients and custom utensils
• Wellness packs featuring essential oils, teas, eye masks and bath soaks
• Celebration kits with mini alcohol bottles, thank you cards, confetti and premium snacks
• Gifts that spark rituals, such as morning coffee kits, digital detox sets, gratitude journals and conversation cards
Sustainability isn’t just trending, it’s expected. Many companies are aligning their gifting strategies with ESG goals and seeking items that reflect social and environmental responsibility.
Gifting Examples:
• RPET tote bags or apparel made from recycled plastic
• Bamboo charging stations with eco packaging
• Plant-based or compostable packaging for gift sets
• Plantable seed cards with branded messaging
Suppliers with verified eco credentials (such as B Corp certification or carbon offset programs) are particularly attractive to clients looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
Brands are looking to create memorable moments and promo products can help elevate these experiences. A tangible gift extends the emotional connection long after the event ends.
Gifting Examples:
• Branded wine glasses for virtual or in-person tasting events
• Custom kits for pizza-making, cocktail nights or BBQ masterclasses
• Branded speakers, coolers or picnic kits for outdoor experiences
• Travel essentials such as luggage tags, eye masks, or toiletry bags for incentive trips
These physical items become keepsakes that reinforce the memory and deepen brand connection.
Clients today are looking for gifts that feel unique and personal, not one-size-fits-all. Decoration techniques and packaging solutions turn quality products into meaningful, memorable gifts.
Decoration Examples:
• Monogramming on apparel, clothing, bags etc.
• Laser engraving on stainless steel drinkware, pens or tech accessories
• Debossing or embossing on notebooks, leather goods or passport holders
• Custom packaging such as branded belly bands, inserts, sleeves or tissue wrap
These personal touches elevate the product and increase perceived value.
Clients are prioritising premium, useful and enduring gifts that reflect positively on their brand.
Gifting Examples:
• Premium tech accessories – noise-cancelling headphones, Bluetooth speakers, wireless chargers or sleek power banks
• Designer-inspired lifestyle gear – branded backpacks, toiletry bags, luggage or tech organisers
• Elevated apparel – jackets, polos or knitwear with tonal branding or subtle embroidery
• Branded leisurewear – personalised robes, slippers or luxe loungewear sets
High-quality gifts are more likely to be used regularly and remembered fondly.
See These Trends in Action at the APPA Roadshow: Corporate Gifting Unwrapped
With the holiday and summer season just around the corner, now is the time to help your clients plan their gifting with creativity and purpose.
Join us at APPA’s Corporate Gifting Unwrapped Roadshow, where the industry’s top suppliers, decorators and service providers will showcase the latest in branded gifting solutions, from sustainable product lines to premium keepsakes and custom experiences.
👉 Visit www.apparoadshow.com for event information and tickets.
