Feb 13, 2025

Branded vs. Unbranded Gifts: What Works Best for Corporate Gifting?

Key Takeaways

Branded gifts should be done tastefully. Opt for premium packaging, subtle branding, or personalized elements rather than large, obvious logos.
Quality matters more than a logo. A high-end, well-crafted gift will be used and appreciated far more than generic promo items.
Unbranded gifts often make a bigger impact. VIP clients and employees prefer gifts that feel personal rather than promotional.
Gifting should build relationships, not just brand awareness. The right gift leaves a lasting impression without feeling like a marketing tactic.

Corporate gifting is more than just a nice gesture—it’s a strategic move. Whether you’re building client relationships, strengthening employee loyalty, or creating brand awareness, the right gift speaks volumes.

But when it comes to branding, should you put your logo front and center, or is a more subtle approach the way to go? Let’s break it down.

🎁 Corporate Gifting Impact

66% of people say they keep promotional gifts for over a year, but only if they find them useful. (Source: Promotional Products Association International, PPAI. Link.)
57% of people say a corporate gift impacts their perception of a brand, with quality being the most important factor. (Source: Coresight Research, 2022. Link.)

The Problem with Heavily Branded Gifts

Once upon a time, companies slapped their logos on everything—cheap water bottles, ill-fitting t-shirts, and stress balls that never saw the light of day. While branded swag has its place, the era of overly branded, low-quality items is over. A corporate gift should be something people want to use, not something they feel obligated take and then relegate to a junk drawer.

Why overly branded gifts fail:

They feel more like marketing collateral than a thoughtful gift.
Low-quality items with a big logo can cheapen your brand perception.
More often than not, people don’t want to wear or use items with a giant corporate logo.

Do better this year. Instead of a generic promo item, opt for something high-quality, useful, and subtly branded—or even unbranded but with a premium experience.

70% of employees say receiving a well-thought-out gift makes them feel more valued than receiving company swag. (Source: Snappy Gifting Report, 2022. Link.)

When & How to Brand Corporate Gifts the Right Way

Branding doesn’t have to be loud to be effective. The goal is to create a lasting impression without making the recipient feel like a walking billboard. Here’s how to brand gifts in a high-end, meaningful way:

1. Branded Packaging & Presentation
A sleek, custom gift box, tissue paper with your logo, or a handwritten note on high-end stationery elevates the gifting experience without overwhelming the recipient.

2. Personalized Elements
Subtle branding, such as engraving initials alongside a small company logo, feels more exclusive than a large, stamped emblem. Think monogrammed notebooks, embossed leather goods, or custom soy candles with an elegant brand mark.

3. Quality Over Quantity
A well-made item with discreet branding (or no branding at all) will get used and appreciated far more than a dozen low-cost promotional products. High-quality drinkware, premium snacks, or a gift of choice option allows your recipients to pick something they’ll truly love.

85% of people prefer subtle branding (e.g., engraving or embossing) over large logos when receiving a corporate gift. (Source: Knack Shops Corporate Gifting Report, 2023. Link.)

When Unbranded Gifts Work Best

Not every gift needs a logo. In fact, many corporate gifts are more impactful when left unbranded.

Unbranded gifts shine in these scenarios:

VIP Client Gifts: Luxury items should feel premium, not promotional. A well-curated gift speaks for itself.
Employee Recognition: Celebrating an employee milestone? A high-end, personalized gift (without a logo) shows true appreciation.
Holiday & Thank-You Gifts: Thoughtful, unbranded gifts feel more personal and genuine, strengthening relationships rather than serving as a marketing tool.

Tasteful Branding 101: How to Add Branding the Right Way

Not all branding is bad—when done right, it can enhance a gift rather than detract from it. The key is to focus on quality over quantity and incorporate branding in a subtle, premium way.

How to brand gifts tastefully:

Choose high-quality items that people actually want to use. Instead of a generic plastic tumbler, opt for a stainless steel Yeti mug, an Appointed notebook with gold foil branding, or a W&P tumbler with a small engraved wordmark. These are items recipients will integrate into their daily lives, keeping your brand top of mind without feeling forced.
Subtlety is key. Engraving, debossing, or foil stamping are elegant ways to incorporate branding without making the gift feel overly promotional.
Invest in presentation. A beautifully designed box with custom tissue paper, on-brand shade of satin ribbon, or a high-quality handwritten gift note on linen weave cardstock can elevate any gift.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

The best corporate gift is one that reflects your company’s values while making the recipient feel valued. Whether branded or unbranded, always prioritize quality, usefulness, and presentation.

✅ Splurge on: Premium packaging, high-quality materials, and personalization.
💡 Save on: Bulk promotional items that won’t get used.

95% of HR and marketing leaders say corporate gifting helps strengthen relationships, but only 37% believe they are doing it effectively. (Source: Coresight Research, 2022. Link.)

This year, elevate your corporate gifting strategy with thoughtful, high-end gifts that make a lasting impact—without the tacky branding. Let Giften Market help you curate gifts that people will truly appreciate.

Get in touch with our Corporate Gifting team today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should I always include my company logo on corporate gifts?
Not necessarily. While branding can help with recall, it’s best done subtly—through packaging, engraving, or small personalized details. Avoid large logos on personal-use items unless they enhance the product’s value.
What are some high-end branding options for corporate gifts?
Consider embossing, engraving, or custom packaging. High-quality branded elements like a monogrammed notebook or a UV printed logo on a wooden gift gift crate feel premium without being overpowering.
Are unbranded gifts more effective than branded ones?
It depends on the goal. For relationship-building and premium gifting, unbranded gifts feel more thoughtful. However, for event giveaways or brand awareness campaigns, subtle, high-quality branding can work well.
How can I ensure my corporate gifts make a lasting impact?
Focus on quality, usefulness, and presentation. Whether branded or unbranded, a well-thought-out gift with premium packaging and a heartfelt note will always be remembered.