Traditional Gifts Remain Popular, but Wellness and Experience Gifts are On the Rise
December symbolizes closures, hugs, and gratitude. For many companies, it’s also the month when gifts are given as a gesture of recognition and connection with employees. But what to give that truly resonates with current tastes and needs?
A recent study by Kantar reveals that the most valued gifts by Mexicans during the December season are clothing, shoes, toys, accessories, perfumes, chocolates or cookies, as well as wines and liquors. However, the landscape is evolving, particularly in work environments where holistic well-being is gaining strength as a trend.
Shifting Preferences: Surprise and Choice
According to the Pluxee survey, over 60% of employees prefer receiving a surprise gift, while 40% would opt to choose it themselves. This data reinforces the need for a balance between emotional and practical aspects.
The most popular benefits are those promoting personal well-being, such as redeemable wellness experience gift cards:
- Yoga classes
- Gym memberships
- Spa treatments
- Massages
- Mindfulness courses
- Flexible benefits platforms allowing choice between physical health, entertainment, healthy eating, or financial education
These gifts are starting to replace traditional ones. Some companies even offer flexible benefits platforms that let employees choose between physical health, entertainment, healthy eating, or financial education.
Generational Shift and Economic Impact
This evolution isn’t just a fleeting trend but a generational need. New work dynamics, accumulated stress, and the desire for a balance between personal and professional life have made well-being a priority.
Moreover, this trend has an economic impact. According to Coparmex, $38,000 million in economic spillover is expected during this December season, benefiting over 152,000 businesses and creating jobs for 983,000 people.
Personalized Gifts for a Healthy Close to the Year
Choosing personalized, wellness-focused gifts could be the perfect end to the year, sending a clear message: your health, time, and peace are also priorities.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the most popular gifts in Mexico during Christmas? According to Kantar, clothing, shoes, toys, accessories, perfumes, chocolates or cookies, wines, and liquors are the most valued gifts.
- Are there shifting preferences in gift-giving? Yes, more employees prefer surprise gifts (60%) or the option to choose themselves (40%), indicating a need for balance between emotional and practical aspects.
- What type of benefits are gaining popularity? Personal well-being benefits, such as redeemable wellness experience gift cards for activities like yoga classes, gym memberships, spa treatments, massages, and mindfulness courses.
- Why is this trend significant? It reflects a generational shift towards prioritizing well-being due to new work dynamics, stress, and the desire for a balanced life. This trend also has a substantial economic impact, expected to generate over $38,000 million in spillover during the Christmas season.
