Nearly half (46%) UK employees have labelled their employers as bad gift givers, just before the holiday season.
Blackhawk Network’s research on Christmas gift-giving behaviours and attitudes found that half the employees did not receive a present from their employer by 2023. A larger proportion (55%) is not expecting one for this year.
The survey, released today by the payment solutions provider, revealed that one third of workers (34%) are disappointed with the gifts their bosses give them. Gen Z workers were the most dissatisfied, with over half (56%) receiving at least one poor present every year.
Nearly half of the respondents (47%) said they wouldn’t leave their employer before Christmas if they received a gift or bonus. More than four out of five (83%) agreed that gifts from employers made them feel valued, and 72% claimed they gave them energy for the coming year.
One third (34%) out of 1,000 employees surveyed wanted a bonus this year, despite only 13% of them receiving one at the end 2023.
Blackhawk Network says that Christmas presents an opportunity for employers, as gifting has a clear impact on retention and well-being.
One fifth (21%) of respondents said that they would change their shopping patterns due to financial concerns. Job security was cited as a concern by 28%.
UK consumers’ biggest concerns are about the cost of utilities (65%), food costs (60%) and inflation (60%).
Chris Ronald, MD of rewards, incentives and benefits at Blackhawk Network said :It’s depressing that UK employees are often disappointed with gifts or the lack thereof from their employers. Christmas gifts are symbolic and a tangible means to show employees how much they appreciate their work over the last year.
He said that UK employers should “not turn a blind-eye to the importance of giving, whether it is giving well or not giving at all”.
Ronald said that employers should act now, regardless of their budget. They should consider the value in a gift which offers choice. This is a decision likely to be valued when Christmas comes around.
Subscribe to our weekly HR news and guidance
Every Wednesday, receive the Personnel Today Direct newsletter.
Personnel Today offers a range of compensation and benefit opportunities.
Browse other compensation and benefits jobs
