Timing is everything when it comes to corporate gift-giving. 82% of companies send gifs to their clients in the run-up to Christmas, though this may not yield the best return on investment. The festive rush can lead to last-minute, stressful decisions and poor gift choices that can negatively reflect on your brand. 30% of companies try to avoid this by planning at least 3 months in advance, but that is not always possible. By shifting your corporate promotional strategies to the New Year, you can avoid your gifts from getting lost in the Christmas chaos, allowing you to stand out from the crowd and unlock a host of benefits.

The New Year Advantage

A surprising New Year gift evokes a positive, memorable experience. In fact, 85% of recipients remember the advertiser who sent them a promotional product. This unique timing helps you to set your brand apart and create a lasting impression. The New Year is a time associated with new goals and fresh starts. If you align your gift-giving with this mindset, you are positioning your brand as a supportive partner in your client’s aspirations for the coming year.

Strengthening Business Relationships

Sending out promotions in the New Year is a powerful way to kick off productivity with your business partners whilst demonstrating a commitment to your relationships, as well as investment in shared success for the coming year. As 79% of clients feel appreciated when receiving a gift from a business partner, it’s clear that thoughtful gifting can significantly strengthen connections. Tailoring your promotions to certain achievements or preferences of the recipient helps to enhance emotional connections and foster stronger, more meaningful business relationships.

Practical Considerations

Gifting in the New Year allows you to take advantage of any sales, meaning better budget flexibility and potentially higher-quality gifts. This timing can also help to avoid the financial strain that often comes with end-of-year expenses. By eliminating the rush and stress surrounding last-minute holiday shopping, you are giving yourself ample time to select meaningful promotions. These items also do not need to be Christmas-theme, reducing the risk of dead stock, as they can be continuously sent out over the year.

Summary

The key benefits to ‘Shifting your Gifting’:

1. Increased visibility and utility

2. Stronger business relationships

3. Budget-friendly timing

Through embracing this strategy, you position your brand as thoughtful, forward-thinking and committed to lasting partnerships. Start the year on a high note with this simple strategy to unlock the marketing power of a New Year's surprise!