The 2026 Corporate Gifting Playbook: 8 Trends to Watch

At Goody, we have one golden rule: If we don't want to see it in our own mailbox, we won’t send it. 

In 2026, business gifting has shifted. It’s no longer about "more stuff"—it’s about the "how did they know?" feeling. 

From chrome finishes that double as art to high-end branded tech, we’re seeing a move toward gifts that feel human, thoughtful, and high-utility.

Consider this your ultimate cheat sheet for modern corporate gifting with zero extra effort.

Playful gifts that feel fun on purpose.

Whimsification: Playful Gifts for Friendly Follow-Ups

Bright colors and unexpected shapes are "in." These playful gift ideas are perfect for making a memorable first impression.

Best for: New hire onboarding, quick thank-yous, and friendly client outreach.

Gifts you can send:

• Cabi Foods – Mayo Keychain
• Sophie Lou Jacobsen – Squiggle Pitcher
• Baublebar – The Ultimate Bag Charm Bead Kit
• Marc Jacobs – The Trinket Utility Snapshot Top Zip Wallet

Branded merch people want to keep.

Coveted Branding: The New Standard for Company Swag

2026 is the year of high-end branded merch. Forget cheap plastic; think subtle logos on premium materials that people actually want to wear and use.

Best for: Team milestones, product launches, and company anniversaries.

Gifts you can send:

• On Demand Swag – Branded MagSafe Charger
• Lane Seven – Branded Lane Seven Jogger Set
• Apple – Branded Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
• RAINS – Branded Rains Tech Pouch

High-quality essentials that last.

Forever Finds: High-Quality, Sustainable Essentials

Recipients are looking for longevity and quality. These "forever" gifts signal that you value the relationship for the long haul.

Best for: Work anniversaries, executive leadership gifts, and VIP client retention.

Gifts you can send:

• Ridge – Aluminum Ridge Wallet
• Great Jones – King Sear Recipient's Choice
• Away – The Carry On

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Personal, without doing detective work.

Hyper-Personalization: Gifting at Scale with AI

It’s not just about monograms anymore. Hyper-personalized gifting uses data to match the gift to the specific person and life moment (like a new baby or a promotion). Plus, with AI Gifting, you can curate and personalize gifting at scale. 

Best for: Account-based marketing (ABM), renewals, and big employee wins.

Gifts that create a real break.

Senses > Screens: Combatting Digital Fatigue

In a world of Zoom calls, tactile gifts offer a much-needed break. These hands-on experiences are the perfect way to show real appreciation.

Best for: Employee Wellness days, post-project celebrations, and team-building.

Gifts you can send:

• FarmSteady – Donut Making Kit (Recipient's Choice)
• Virgin Experiences
• Pott'd – Blissful Blooms Minimalist Vase Home Pottery Kit

Small treats that feel premium.

Snackable Luxuries: Premium Treats for Instant Impact

When you want to be thoughtful without a "big production," gourmet food gifts are a guaranteed win.

Best for: Meeting follow-ups, prospecting, and boosting team morale.

Gifts you can send:

• Truffles by Wolfgang Puck – Chocolate Truffle 12-Piece Gift Box
• Gato – Decadent Stuffed Dates 4-Pack
• Fishwife
• Regalis Foods

Sleek, modern and reflective finishes.

Chrome & Metallic: Sleek Modern Aesthetics

Reflective finishes like chrome and silver are the top home and desk accessory trend for 2026, offering an immediate sense of "current" style.

Best for: Modern office upgrades and high-polish client moments.

Gifts you can send:

• Snowfox – Stainless Steel Martini Glass
• &Tradition – Como Portable Lamp SC53
• Telfar – Metallic Small Shopping Bag
• Swarovski – Minera Decorative Bowl
• Tower 28 Beauty – GoGo Cooling Shimmer Eyeshadow

Throwback pieces that feel timeless.

Retro Realness: The Power of Nostalgic Gifting

Nostalgia creates an emotional connection. Vintage-inspired gifts feel timeless and personal, making them ideal for building company culture.

Best for: Partner gifting and creative team gifts.

Gifts you can send:

• Native Union – Pop Phone
• Fujifilm – Instax Mini 11 Instant Film Camera
• Victrola – Bluetooth Suitcase Stereo Turntable

How to turn trends into a simple 2026 gifting plan

If you want this to be easy:

• Pick 2–3 trends that fit your company
• Assign them to key moments (onboarding, anniversaries, renewals, events)
• Build a few reusable gift collections and send from those all year

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About the author

Nicholas Teddy

I lead marketing at Goody, where I help companies and individuals send more delightful, memorable gifts. I'm particularly passionate about using Goody's wealth of data to give insightful, research-backed gifting ideas. Before Goody, I worked in digital marketing at LinkedIn, Yext, ROOM, and Contentsquare. Outside of work, I enjoy art, cooking, writing, and (of course) gifting.