18 Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas to Show Gratitude

Employee appreciation is a powerful way to foster a positive workplace culture, boost morale, and show your team members that their contributions are valued. Whether you're celebrating Employee Appreciation Day or just want to express gratitude for a job well done, finding the right employee appreciation gift can make a big impact. Here are 18 great employee appreciation gifts that will not only make your employees feel appreciated but also enhance their work experience and increase employee morale.

1. Custom Shoelaces by LacedUp Laces

Start off your employee appreciation gifts with something truly personalized—custom shoelaces. LacedUp Laces offers high-quality, customizable laces that allow you to add a unique touch to your employee's footwear. Whether you want to add a fun design, the employee's name, or a motivational quote, these personalized gifts make a lasting impression. Perfect for a team member or the whole team, these laces provide a stylish way for employees to express their individuality while feeling recognized for their hard work. Custom shoelaces also add a personal touch to a modern office or casual work setting, making them a great employee appreciation gift for employees who appreciate unique and practical items. This is a thoughtful gift that will keep your employees walking with pride.

2. Desk Accessories

Personalized desk accessories are a great employee appreciation gift that combines practicality with style. Desk organizers, custom mousepads, and notebooks can help enhance productivity and create a more inviting workspace. Not only do these gifts help your employees stay organized, but they also create a positive environment where they can thrive. By adding personal touches, such as engraved names or inspirational quotes, these gifts also show your employees that you appreciate their contributions. Desk accessories are a great way to express gratitude while improving your employee’s workspace. With the right desk accessory, you’re not just gifting a product, but investing in your employee’s comfort and productivity, which increases job satisfaction and makes them feel appreciated.

3. Gym Membership

A gym membership is a perfect way to show that you care about your employees' health and wellness. Research shows that offering wellness benefits like gym memberships can improve employee morale, reduce stress, and promote a healthier work-life balance. Offering a gym membership is also a great employee appreciation gift because it helps your team members de-stress after a long workday. Plus, when your employees feel physically well, they’re more likely to have increased productivity and focus in the office. A gym membership can be a cost-effective and thoughtful way to show your team you value their overall well-being. By investing in their health, you’re not only improving their lives but contributing to a more engaged and motivated workforce.

4. Tote Bags

Tote bags are a tried-and-true employee appreciation gift that combines practicality with thoughtfulness. Whether it’s for carrying lunch, books, or office essentials, tote bags can be used daily and are an effective way to show you care. Look for customizable options where you can add your employee’s name or the company’s logo to create a personalized gift. These bags can be used to carry personal items or even for trips to the gym, making them a versatile gift that suits a variety of lifestyles. Tote bags are not only functional but also provide a personal touch that makes the employee feel recognized. When gifting tote bags, you’re also encouraging your employees to take their personal belongings in style, promoting job satisfaction.

5. Handwritten Notes

Sometimes, the most meaningful form of employee recognition is something simple, yet heartfelt—handwritten notes. A thoughtful, handwritten note is a perfect way to express gratitude and show your employees that you recognize their hard work. This personal gesture can significantly improve employee morale, as it shows you’ve taken the time to acknowledge their contributions in a meaningful way. Research shows that personalized recognition, such as a handwritten note, fosters stronger bonds and increases job satisfaction. Whether it’s for a team member or the whole team, a handwritten note can create a more connected, appreciative work culture. In fact, small gestures like this can inspire your employees to continue working hard, knowing their efforts are being appreciated. It’s the perfect employee appreciation gift to show your staff they are valued.

6. Coffee Shop Gift Cards

Everyone has a favorite coffee shop, and a coffee shop gift card is a great employee appreciation gift. Whether your employees prefer a morning caffeine boost or a cozy afternoon latte, a gift card allows them to choose their favorite drink. This employee appreciation gift shows that you care about their interests and allows them to treat themselves to something they enjoy. Coffee shop gift cards are also a cost-effective way to show your appreciation, and they’re ideal for a team member who’s always on the go. Research shows that small, everyday gestures like treating your employees to their favorite coffee can boost employee morale and make them feel more valued. It’s a thoughtful and meaningful way to recognize their contributions and show gratitude for their work.

7. Luggage Tags

For employees who travel frequently for work, consider giving them a luggage tag. These practical and stylish gifts can be easily customized with the employee’s name or initials, making them a personalized gift that will come in handy during their travels. Luggage tags are great for employee appreciation as they help employees keep track of their belongings while adding a personal flair to their luggage. With frequent business trips, a customized luggage tag will remind your team member that their hard work is recognized. This thoughtful gift will improve your employee’s travel experience and give them something to look forward to on their trips. Luggage tags are a simple yet impactful way to show appreciation and make your employees feel valued and special.

8. Custom T-Shirts

A custom T-shirt with your company logo or a personalized design is a great gift for showing appreciation. Custom T-shirts can be worn during company events or casual Fridays, offering your employees something fun and practical. You can add quotes or designs that reflect the employee’s interests, making it a personalized gift that will be appreciated. This gift encourages a sense of belonging and camaraderie among the team, fostering team spirit. Custom T-shirts are also a fun and creative way to recognize employee recognition while promoting company unity. When employees wear their custom T-shirts, they’re walking reminders of their value within the organization, helping them feel more connected and valued.

9. Water Bottles

Water bottles are a practical and eco-friendly gift that your employees will use every day. You can find personalized water bottles that help remind employees to stay hydrated while working. A custom water bottle is a great employee appreciation gift that combines health benefits with a personal touch. For employees who are always on the go, these reusable bottles are an environmentally conscious alternative to disposable plastic bottles. Gifting a water bottle can also boost productivity by keeping employees hydrated, which is essential for maintaining focus during a long workday. Research shows that staying hydrated improves cognitive performance, which means your employees will perform at their best. It's a thoughtful way to show that you care about their well-being while showing appreciation for their hard work.

10. Bonus Points for Good Work

Bonus points are a great way to reward employees for their hard work and contributions. With bonus points, employees can choose from a variety of rewards, allowing them to select something they truly want. This type of employee appreciation fosters a sense of autonomy and recognition, and it shows that you value the individual needs of your team. Offering bonus points as part of your employee recognition program can increase motivation and engagement among employees. By giving them the power to choose their own reward, you show respect for their preferences, which in turn increases employee morale and job satisfaction.

11. Office Games

Incorporating office games into your employee appreciation gifts is a fun way to foster teamwork and relieve stress. Games such as trivia, puzzles, or card games can be a great way to take a break from work and encourage bonding among team members. Games also create a sense of fun, which can improve employee morale and contribute to a more positive office environment. The gift of games is a simple and affordable way to show appreciation while also boosting collaboration and productivity. These employee recognition activities bring the team closer together, allowing them to work more effectively as a unit.

12. Book Club Subscriptions

For employees who love to read, a book club subscription is an excellent gift. A book club membership allows them to receive new books every month, offering a great way to unwind and grow both personally and professionally. Employee appreciation gifts like this show that you support their hobbies and encourage personal development. Offering a book subscription can promote a culture of learning and continuous improvement within your company, while also showing your employees that their growth is important. This thoughtful gift can inspire creativity and relaxation, making it a great employee appreciation gift for those who appreciate reading.

13. Personalized Mugs

A personalized mug is a practical yet thoughtful employee appreciation gift. Whether it features a favorite quote, employee name, or the company logo, it’s something they can use every day. Mugs are great for adding a touch of personal flair to the office or home workspace, and they offer a constant reminder of your gratitude. You can even add some fun and light-hearted designs to keep things casual and relaxed. Personalized mugs also encourage a sense of pride and belonging, making them a great employee recognition gift. It’s an affordable and meaningful gesture that will leave a lasting impression.

14. Portable Chargers

When employees are always on the move, a portable charger is an ideal gift. A portable charger ensures that employees stay connected, whether they're traveling for work or heading out for lunch. This practical gift shows that you understand the busy lives of your team and care about their convenience. Portable chargers come in various sizes and can be personalized with names or company branding. They provide a great way to show your appreciation for an employee’s hard work while offering something they’ll use frequently. A portable charger helps reduce stress and ensures your team stays powered up, making it a perfect addition to your employee appreciation gift list.

15. Customized Stationery

Customized stationery can be a unique and practical gift for employees who enjoy writing or need professional materials for work. Personalized stationery can include pens, notebooks, or planners with the employee's name or a meaningful message. This thoughtful employee appreciation gift is functional while still feeling personal. It’s a great way to help employees stay organized while also offering them something customized that feels special. Research shows that personalized stationery can inspire creativity and focus, which can contribute to improved productivity and job satisfaction. It’s a simple yet elegant way to show you care.

16. Tickets to Events

Tickets to events are a fantastic way to show your appreciation for hard-working employees. Whether it’s a concert, a sporting event, or a show, this gift gives employees the opportunity to unwind and enjoy their time outside of work. Event tickets make a thoughtful and memorable gift that will make your employees feel truly appreciated. It’s a great way to reward them for their hard work and dedication while giving them the chance to create unforgettable memories. Event tickets offer a unique experience that boosts morale and makes employees feel valued.

17. Meal Vouchers

Meal vouchers are a practical and appreciated employee appreciation gift. Giving your team members the gift of a delicious meal shows you care about their well-being and work-life balance. Meal vouchers allow employees to enjoy a meal at their favorite restaurant or order takeout, offering them the chance to relax and recharge. This simple yet thoughtful gesture promotes employee morale and can be a great reward for their dedication. Plus, who doesn't appreciate a free meal? Meal vouchers are an effective way to show appreciation without breaking the bank, making them a great gift for any employee.

18. Gift Cards

Gift cards are one of the most flexible and popular employee appreciation gifts. Employees can choose from a wide variety of products, from clothing to tech gadgets, making them a great option for diverse tastes. Whether it’s a gift card to a favorite store, online retailer, or even for a luxury experience, this gift lets employees pick something they truly want. It’s an excellent way to show appreciation without guessing what someone might enjoy. Gift cards are convenient and thoughtful, offering a wide range of options to make your employees feel valued and appreciated.

Each of these employee appreciation gifts is designed to not only recognize your employees but also contribute to a happier, more productive workplace. By showing your gratitude, you help build a stronger bond with your team, boost their morale, and create a more positive work culture. Whether you're looking for personalized gifts, health-focused items, or something that enhances the work environment, these ideas will help you express employee recognition in a meaningful way. So go ahead—show your team how much you appreciate them!

Remember to Show Appreciation with LacedUp Laces

In addition to the employee appreciation gifts listed above, one great way to show your gratitude is with custom shoelaces from LacedUp Laces. These unique, personalized laces are a fun way to appreciate your employees and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re looking to surprise your team with something thoughtful or recognize a standout employee, LacedUp Laces offers a great employee appreciation gift that will have them feeling valued every step of the way. So, for that personal touch, visit LacedUp today!