Corporate gifting is no longer just a routine business activity. For Australian companies, it has evolved into a strategic tool to strengthen relationships, boost employee morale, and build brand loyalty. From employee appreciation gifts to client thank-you packages, the art of corporate gifting is taking on new trends, reflecting shifting values and preferences.
This guide explores the top trends currently shaping corporate gifts Australia, providing actionable insights for marketing professionals, business owners, and HR managers. Whether you’re looking to refresh your gifting strategy or stay ahead of the curve, this post outlines what you need to know.
Trend 1: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Gifts
Examples of Eco-Friendly Gifts
Sustainability has moved from being a “nice-to-have” to a “must-have” in the corporate world, particularly in Australia. With increasing awareness of environmental issues, businesses are choosing eco-friendly gifts that align with their corporate social responsibility.
Popular options include reusable coffee cups, eco-friendly notebooks made from recycled materials, bamboo utensil sets, and plantable stationery. For something more unique, choose solar-powered gadgets like chargers or eco-friendly hampers filled with organic, locally-sourced treats.
Why Sustainability Matters to Australian Companies
Australia has one of the highest rates of waste generation per capita in the world. This has led to growing consumer and employee demand for environmentally conscious practices. By opting for sustainable corporate gifts, companies demonstrate their commitment to reducing their environmental impact, which can enhance their reputation.
From reducing plastic waste to supporting green initiatives, eco-friendly gifting is a strong way to reflect company values while providing thoughtful gifts employees and clients can appreciate.
Trend 2: Personalized and Experiential Gifts
The Rise of Personalized Gifts
Personalisation is taking corporate gifting to the next level. Rather than one-size-fits-all items, businesses increasingly prefer gifts that convey thoughtfulness through added personal touch.
This could be anything from engraved pens and monogrammed leather notebooks to custom tote bags with the recipient’s name or a message. Personalised gifts make recipients feel valued and appreciated, ensuring a stronger emotional connection with your brand.
Experiential Gifts for Team Building
Experiential gifts have also become a standout trend, particularly for team-building purposes. Instead of physical products, businesses are gifting experiences—from wine-tasting events and cooking classes to adventure activities like kayaking or escape room challenges.
These experiences foster stronger team connections and create memorable moments, making them the perfect corporate gifting choice for internal teams. They also demonstrate that your company’s focus goes beyond material rewards, prioritising employee well-being and growth.
Trend 3: Supporting Local Businesses
Highlighting Australian-Made Products
There’s been a noticeable rise in demand for corporate gifts that support local Australian businesses. Choosing Australian-made products not only boosts the local economy but also resonates deeply with teams and clients who value local craftsmanship and authenticity.
Examples include handcrafted leather goods, artisan chocolates, locally brewed craft beer, or skincare products from Australian-made brands. Including a “Made in Australia” tag can be a simple yet effective way to showcase the origin of these gifts.
Benefits of Supporting Local
A strong emphasis on supporting local businesses reflects a sense of community and corporate responsibility. Additionally, relying on local suppliers often ensures shorter delivery times and reduced environmental footprint compared to imported products.
For businesses looking to reinforce their Australian identity and appeal to local customers, sourcing locally-produced gifts is an effective strategy that aligns with ethical practices.
Trend 4: Tech and Gadget Gifts
Popular Tech Gifts for Employees
Technology continues to be a winning category in corporate gifting due to its practicality and modern appeal. For employees and clients alike, cutting-edge tech products hold high perceived value, making them memorable and appreciated gifts.
Popular options include wireless earbuds, portable power banks, smart key finders, Bluetooth speakers, or even laptop stands to enhance remote work setups.
The Practicality of Tech Gifts
Tech gifts are particularly appealing because of their utility in both personal and professional settings. A high-quality gadget enhances productivity, simplifies tasks, or provides entertainment, ensuring that it stays in regular use.
Beyond functionality, tech gifts carry an aura of innovation, making them ideal for businesses wanting to project a forward-thinking image. Including practical items with your branding subtly increases your brand’s visibility and recall, making tech items a strong contender for corporate gifting strategies.
Future of Corporate Gifting in Australia
Corporate gifting trends show that Australian companies are moving toward thoughtful, purpose-driven choices that go beyond simply handing out promotional items. Whether it’s an eco-friendly bamboo set or a personalised leather-bound notebook, companies are putting more effort into selecting gifts that resonate with their recipients and reflect meaningful values.
For businesses looking to stay competitive, aligning gifting strategies with these growing trends can help strengthen both internal and external relationships. By incorporating eco-conscious practices, personalisation, local support, and innovative gadgets, your corporate gifts act as meaningful expressions of your company’s commitment to building strong connections.
Charles Liu
Marketing Expert at Cubic Promote. Charles Liu specialises in Branding, marketing and has 18 years of experience helping brands achieve their goals. Connect with Charles Liu on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-liu-042b9124/