Why a Bottle of Wine and Chocolates Won’t Cut It in Corporate Gifting Anymore

Ah, the classic corporate Christmas gift: a bottle of wine and a box of chocolates. It’s a safe bet, right? You’ve probably seen it hundreds of times—sent it, received it, and maybe even re-gifted it when you didn’t know what to do with it. But in today’s world of strategic corporate gifting, that trusty combo just isn’t cutting it anymore.

Here’s why: it’s forgettable. And in the competitive business world, being forgettable is the last thing you want.

The Problem with "Safe" Gifts

Picture this: It's the holiday season, and your top client’s office is overflowing with Christmas gifts. There’s a stack of identical wine bottles and chocolate boxes piling up in the corner. Amid the flurry of gifts, they unwrap yours... only to find, *surprise*, another bottle of wine. Maybe they raise an eyebrow, mumble a polite "thanks," and move on to the next. And just like that, your moment to make an impact is lost.

 Wine and chocolates, while undeniably tasty, are the ultimate default gifts. They scream, “I didn’t know what else to get, so here’s something everyone likes.” It's not personal, and it doesn’t show effort or thoughtfulness. Worse still, it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression on someone who receives dozens of similar gifts every year.

The Gift That Says, "We Know You"

Christmas Corporate gifting should be about *building relationships*, not just ticking off a box. Whether it’s for clients or employees, the right gift shows that you understand the recipient and value them enough to give something meaningful. It's about more than just "thank you"—it's about strengthening bonds, creating positive associations with your brand, and keeping your business top-of-mind. 

Now, does a standard bottle of wine accomplish that? Probably not. But a carefully curated, luxurious gift that feels exclusive and personalised? Now, you’re talking. And that is at the heart of what we do; providing a curated and bespoke gifting concierge service to our clients, so your gifts and your business can achieve the standout they deserve.

The Rise of Thoughtful, Customised Gifting

Today, corporate gifting has evolved into an art form. Companies are realising that thoughtful gifts that reflect their values and the recipient’s interests are far more impactful. 

The shift toward curated, personalised gifting is all about creating *experiences*, not just handing over products. When the recipient opens a gift that feels special, it shows that you went beyond the easy route, that you’re willing to go the extra mile—just like in your business relationship.

 A Better Way to Stand Out

 Think about it: When was the last time you remembered who sent you that generic wine bottle? Now, think about the times you’ve received a truly unique gift—one that made you pause and appreciate the thought behind it. That’s the power of strategic gifting. It stays with people.

 If you want to truly make an impact, consider these key elements when choosing a corporate gift:

Personalisation - Add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or choosing something that aligns with their interests or tastes.

Exclusivity - The more unique and exclusive the gift, the more memorable it will be. Choose products or experiences that they can’t just pick up at the local supermarket.

Presentation -  A beautifully wrapped gift that exudes luxury is part of the experience. It signals quality and care from the moment they receive it.

 
Your Gift Reflects Your Brand

Here’s the kicker: your corporate gift isn’t just a token of appreciation—it’s an extension of your brand. When you give a thoughtful, high-quality gift, you’re telling your clients or employees, “We value you enough to invest in something special.” On the flip side, when you send something generic, it can give the impression that your relationship isn’t worth much effort.

 This doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune. It’s the thought, creativity, and personalisation that count. A unique gift doesn’t have to be extravagant; it just has to show that you’ve given it some thought.

Time to Ditch the Default

So, the next time you’re considering sending that bottle of wine or the all-too-predictable box of chocolates, pause for a moment. Ask yourself: is this gift helping you stand out and build stronger connections? Or is it just blending into the crowd?

In a world where relationships are everything, the way you show appreciation matters. Corporate Christmas gifting is your chance to not only say “thank you” but also to leave a lasting impression. So go ahead, ditch the default. Your clients and employees will remember it.

And trust us, they won’t miss the wine.