The popularity of corporate gifting among Irish SMEs is set to grow this festive season, with 82% planning to purchase presents for their clients according to new research by Musgrave MarketPlace.
The survey, conducted by the wholesaler among 600 Irish SMEs, revealed that corporate gifting among SMEs will rise by 7% this Christmas, compared to 2015 when 75% of small business owners planned to exchange corporate gifts. 89% of SMEs said they send corporate gifts to enhance relationships with their clients.
Among the study’s findings were the top gift choices, with mixed food and alcohol hampers ranking as the most popular gifts for corporate clients, according to 45% of SME owners. Gifting alcohol also rates highly among SMEs, with 44% of small business owners now choosing wine, spirits or craft beer for their clients – an increase of 11% since last year. Chocolates were considered the best gift to give by 9% of respondents and just 2% would opt for candles.
The stress of gift giving is increasing, with finding suitable gifts being the most stressful part of the process for 37% of respondents, and high costs of gifts bothering 20% of SME owners. 18% feel stressed by delivering gifts, while 16% find the process overly time-consuming.
Over two-thirds of those surveyed voiced a preference for in-store shopping, over buying online.
Commenting on the findings, Musgrave MarketPlace Director of Marketing Michelle Fennell said, “It is important to us at Musgrave MarketPlace to make corporate gift giving as simple as possible for all SMEs. We offer high quality gifts for purchase both in-store and online to save our customers’ time and let them choose the most suitable gift to show their appreciation to clients this Christmas.”
© 2016 - Checkout Magazine by Donncha Mac Cóil
