If you have ever received a gift from a friend or an acquaintance that came as a surprise, it often sticks in your mind more than the gifts you receive at Christmas and Birthdays and other expected gift occasions. In my experience, as a supplier of luxury corporate gifts, the companies who are prepared to budget for clients and employee gifts tend to have fewer problems than most in maintaining their client and staff base. The reason being is simple, they know how to nurture relationships and reward performance.

For those reading this who are thinking about buying corporate gifts for the first time and are not quite sure what occasions and gifts would be suitable as well as finding out more about the importance of gifts to clients and employees then here is a little starter to help you on your way.

Perhaps the most important reason for companies to give their clients gifts as thanks for their custom is to distinguish themselves from competing firms. With competition between companies fierce in many industries, standing out from the competition is essential for survival as many business will be willing to undercut each other to get that all important first contract.

Also having your logo embroidered or embossed on garments such as wallets, scarves, or gloves is a fantastic branding opportunity for your company and adds a touch of luxury to your corporate gift.

As a rule of thumb, the season for client and employee gifts tends to be Christmas time but there are lots of other opportunities to gift. For example if a member of your staff has just had a period of outstanding sales or performance you may want to reward them immediately as a gesture of you appreciation.

In terms of what to give as corporate gifts, unisex items such as cashmere scarves and gloves are fantastic as they add a little luxury to these fail-safe corporate gift items. Food hampers are always received well, as are sporting event days however the last gift tends to be biased towards men and will cost you a lot more.

So there we have a brief look at the why, when and what of corporate gifts.