Employee appreciation isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for retention, productivity, and morale. According to Gallup, employees who feel undervalued are twice as likely to consider quitting within the next year. On the other hand, Workhuman reports that happier employees help their colleagues 33% more often, spend 46% more time on tasks, and report being 65% more energized by their work. To build a motivated and loyal team, thoughtful rewards such as gift cards can make all the difference.
Why Gift Cards Are the Perfect Employee Appreciation Reward
When it comes to recognizing your team’s efforts, flexibility and personalization are key. According to Fiserv Inc., studies show that 80% of employees prefer gift cards as rewards from their employers. Unlike generic rewards, gift cards empower employees to choose something they genuinely value, making the gesture feel more personal and impactful. From team milestones to individual achievements, gift cards offer a versatile way to celebrate success and express gratitude.
Top Gift Card Options for Employees
Here are some of this year's best gift cards for employee appreciation, all available through the Engage2Reward™ Gift Card Ordering Platform:
Prepaid Reward Cards
These versatile options allow employees to spend their money wherever they choose, offering them the highest amount of flexibility and freedom.
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Retailers for Everyday Needs
- CVS® Gift Cards: An excellent choice for employees who appreciate convenience and practicality. Whether it’s health and wellness products, household essentials, or quick snacks, CVS offers something for everyone. These cards are especially valued during busy times like flu season or holiday shopping.
- Target Gift Cards: Perfect for employees who enjoy versatile shopping options, from home goods to groceries.
- Walmart Gift Cards: A reliable choice for everyday needs, offering a wide range of products at affordable prices.
- Macy's Gift Cards: A popular option for fashion, house furnishings, and much more for employees' home needs.
- Amazon.com Gift Cards: A go-to option for employees who value endless variety and quick delivery.
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Experiences and Activities
- TopGolf Gift Cards: Encourage team bonding and relaxation with a fun golfing experience.
- Dave & Buster’s Gift Cards: Perfect for employees who enjoy games and dining in a lively atmosphere.
With 78% of young employees preferring to spend money on experiences rather than material goods, activity gift cards are a great way to promote social bonding and personal exploration.
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Wellness and Self-Care
- Soothe Gift Cards: Promote relaxation with on-demand massages and wellness services.
- The Vitamin Shoppe® Gift Cards: Support health-conscious employees with access to vitamins and supplements.
- REI Gift Cards: Great for employees who love outdoor adventures and high-quality gear.
- Athleta Gift Cards: Show employees you care about their hobbies and fitness goals.
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Food and Restaurants
- DoorDash Gift Cards: Offer employees the convenience of food delivery from their favorite local spots.
- Uber Eats® Gift Cards: Provide a similar convenience with access to a wide range of cuisines.
- Subway® Gift Cards: Give employees a quick, convenient lunch option.
- Bloomin' Brands Gift Cards: Treat employees to a dining experience at any of the Bloomin' Brands family of restaurants.
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Entertainment and Streaming
- AMC Theatres Gift Cards: Perfect for employees who love a night out at the movies.
- Hulu Gift Cards: A great choice for streaming enthusiasts who enjoy binge-watching their favorite shows.
- Spotify Gift Cards: Ideal for music lovers who want to curate their perfect playlists.
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The Gift of Choice
The Engage2Reward™ Choice Card is the ultimate way to show your appreciation while giving employees the flexibility they value most. This versatile reward allows recipients to choose from over 250 popular digital gift cards, catering to diverse interests and preferences. Whether your team members prefer dining out, indulging in self-care, enjoying entertainment, or shopping for essentials, the Engage2Reward Choice Card ensures they find something meaningful and personal.
Not only does this card offer unparalleled convenience for both employers and employees, but it also simplifies the reward process with an easy-to-use platform. Recipients can browse and select their preferred gift cards online, making the experience seamless and enjoyable. And rather than choosing a single brand, the Engage2Reward Choice Card balance can be split and applied to multiple gift card brands, so employees never feel restricted.
With the Engage2Reward Choice Card, you can elevate your employee appreciation efforts, foster a culture of recognition, and give your team members the power to choose what matters most to them.
Enhancing Employee Appreciation with Gift Cards
The Engage2Reward Platform simplifies the process of recognizing and rewarding your team. With a wide selection of popular gift cards, this platform ensures that your appreciation efforts are seamless and impactful. Its intuitive interface allows managers to send digital or physical gift cards quickly, making it easier than ever to show gratitude.
The platform also offers customization options, allowing you to tailor rewards to your company culture and individual employee preferences. Add a photo, video, and heartfelt letter of recognition to the delivery to ensure your team feels seen and appreciated.
The Impact of Employee Appreciation
Employee recognition is more than just a morale booster—it’s a driver of performance and loyalty. By investing in thoughtful rewards like gift cards, you create a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated. As a result, you’ll see stronger collaboration, higher productivity, and a team that’s genuinely energized by their work.
Employee appreciation day is on the first Friday in March. With the Engage2Reward Platform, showing appreciation has never been easier or more effective. So register today to start choosing the perfect gift cards for your team.
