Spending was down about twenty percent in 2009 on gifts for employees. That followed a 10 percent drop in 2008. This year most think there will finally be an increase in spending on gifts for employees. We will cover some ideas that span the spectrum from expensive to useful but less costly. As expected technology items are near the top of the want list for many this season but with budgets still lean for most it will be better to spend on less gratuitous items.
The most desired technology gift this holiday season is the iPad. That is way above the budget most can afford so give the next best thing, an iPad case. There are now some custom printed ones showing up but it is hard to beat the Apple version of a protective iPad case. Newegg is one of my favorite stores to shop from when I need to buy online. Prices are fantastic, service is usually very good and shipping rates are affordable. There are also a bunch of iPad carrying cases available from stores like Best Buy.
Jumping all the way to the other side of the spectrum mugs and drinkware are always popular. Branded products are forever holiday hits and the Wenger Stainless Bottle is no different as it carries the symbols of the Swiss Army. It’s really just a basic stainless bottle, but Wenger has a huge following and they’re inexpensive and a better alternative than using throw away water bottles.
Somewhere in the middle are nice winter jackets. North Face has stayed out of the corporate markets. They don’t want their products co-branded so you will have to take a look at Dicks Sport Goods to buy the North Face Chromium Thermal Jacket. The North Face makes some great apparel items, all of which are at a level of quality rarely seen. They are very expensive when compared to brands like Columbia but many feel they hold up longer, look better and are warmer.
We will take a look at some additional gift ideas in the coming week including tools, sporting goods and gift cards. Sears has released some great new tools including an all in one ratchet that has already been knocked off by a bunch of competitors including Kobalt.