Holidays and Special Occasions
Holidays and Special Occasions
Holidays and Special Occasions
Your Complete Timeline and Swag Guide for Employee Appreciation Day 2026
Your Complete Timeline and Swag Guide for Employee Appreciation Day 2026
Your Complete Timeline and Swag Guide for Employee Appreciation Day 2026
A practical guide to planning Employee Appreciation Day, including swag options and a clear timeline to help you stay ahead.
A practical guide to planning Employee Appreciation Day, including swag options and a clear timeline to help you stay ahead.
A practical guide to planning Employee Appreciation Day, including swag options and a clear timeline to help you stay ahead.
Jan 8, 2026
•
9
min read
Employee Appreciation Day 2026 is just a few months away! As a day dedicated to the backbone of every company, Employee Appreciation Day is an occasion that you shouldn’t miss.
But why celebrate Employee Appreciation Day? What makes this moment special? When is Employee Appreciation Day, anyway? What can you do for EAD, and what steps should you take to ensure that your teams will feel your recognition and gratitude for all their hard work on this special day?
In this blog, we walk you through what Employee Appreciation Day is all about, what swag and gifting options you should consider for this occasion, and when to take action so you can execute your plans without rushing.
What is Employee Appreciation Day?
Employee Appreciation Day (or simply EAD) takes place on the first Friday of March each year, which means that this 2026, EAD falls on March 6. Generally, EAD is a dedicated moment to recognize the people who keep your company moving forward with their professional contributions.
It’s a day that was created by Dr Bob Nelson, who initially used it to celebrate the publication of his book, 1,001 Ways to Reward Employees, as a reminder for employers to give gratitude to their employees for their hard work.
Why You Should Celebrate Employee Appreciation Day
According to recent statistics, 83.6% of employees feel that recognition from their bosses or companies affects their motivation at work. This highlights the importance of making sure that your employees feel appreciated, especially on days like EAD.
Consistent appreciation helps strengthen company culture by making employees feel connected to your organization and its mission. That sense of belonging often translates into stronger engagement and commitment. Recognition also plays a role in retention. When effort goes unnoticed, employees are more likely to disengage or leave. A thoughtful EAD gesture, whether a message or swag, reinforces that their work is seen and valued. Appreciation can even influence productivity. Employees who feel recognized are more likely to bring energy, focus, and initiative to their roles.
While a simple thank you matters, tangible gestures, such as swag and gifts, often help that appreciation feel more real and lasting. The key is choosing something that fits how your team works today. That could mean physical swag, flexible rewards, or even a mix of both. It’ll all depend on what your local and global teams actually need.
Choosing the Right Type of Swag and Timing for Employee Appreciation Day
There’s no single right way to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day 2026. Different teams, locations, and timelines call for different approaches. The key is understanding how each option works and how far in advance it needs to be planned, so everything arrives on time.
Bulk swag
An employee appreciation day swag is great if you’re celebrating large teams. And that is where bulk swag comes in! Bulk swag works best when you want everyone to receive the same item at the same time. Apparel, bags, or desk items can help you create a shared moment across the company and teams. Since bulk swag is produced in large volumes, these items require the longest lead time, which is five (5) weeks.
Production (3 weeks): Create and brand the selected swag items
Kitting (1 week): Pack items and prepare them for distribution
Customer approval (1 week): Review and confirm final items before shipping
Since Employee Appreciation Day is on March 6, ideally, you should be able to place your bulk swag orders by January 30. This gives you just enough time to have your items sent to production, kitting, and approval while still ensuring they’ll arrive by March 6.
On Demand swag
On Demand swag offers flexibility without sacrificing quality, as it only requires a 1-unit minimum. That’s right! You won’t have to order more than what you need because you can send only one item. Once set up, swag items are sent individually on the exact day you choose. This is especially helpful for global teams or companies with remote employees.
Place your On Demand swag orders by February 20 so items can be sent individually and delivered on Employee Appreciation Day, March 6.
PerkUp Dollars
PerkUp Dollars is an exclusive gift option offered by PerkUp. With this option, you can give your employees the freedom to choose what they want. Instead of selecting a physical item, you send a balance to your employees, which they can use to redeem their preferred swag.
PerkUp Dollars are sent on the day of Employee Appreciation Day. There is no advanced setup required, which makes this a reliable option for tight timelines.
Choose this option only if you’re rushing. If not, we’d recommend choosing swag over PerkUp dollars, as tangible items have a more lasting impact on your employees. After all, they’re more likely to appreciate your effort in picking out the physical swag you think best suits them.
What are the best swag ideas for Employee Appreciation Day 2026?
If you want to show your appreciation to your employees through tangible gestures, then here are the best swag ideas for EAD 2026.
Professional Travel Backpack - $47.89
This backpack fits naturally into how your employees actually move through their workday. From commuting to business travel, it keeps laptops and essentials protected without the unnecessary bulk. Choosing a gift like this for Employee Appreciation Day shows consideration for employees’ routines, not just a one-day gesture. It’s something they continue using because it earns its place.
Sleek Polyester Backpack - $53.59
Some gifts feel temporary, but this one becomes part of someone’s routine. With water-resistant materials and organized compartments, this backpack supports busy workdays and unpredictable schedules. As an Employee Appreciation Day gift, it reflects reliability and care.
Utility Crossbody Bag - $40.79
This crossbody bag works well when employees need mobility, but they don’t want to sacrifice organization. It’s useful for events, commuting, or everyday errands, which makes it a strong appreciation gift. Rather than sitting unused, it becomes a go-to carry option that quietly reinforces the message behind Employee Appreciation Day.
Sorbo Sip Stainless Steel Water Bottle | 24 Oz - $18.99
Hydration is one of those daily needs that often gets overlooked. That’s why this Sorbo bottle is a perfect EAD gift, so you can support your employees’ long workdays, active schedules, and life outside the office. Gifting it for Employee Appreciation Day connects recognition to wellness in a way that feels natural and thoughtful.
Tyeso Vacuum Insulated Coffee Mug | 14 Oz - $15.99
This TYESO mug becomes part of an employee’s daily rhythm, from morning meetings to late afternoon breaks. It’s practical without being impersonal, which is why it works so well as an appreciation gift.
Tyeso Classic Cola Shaped Sports Bottle | 25 Oz - $16.69
Designed for movement, this TYESO sports bottle fits into commutes, workouts, and long days away from a desk. It balances function with design in a way that employees appreciate over time. As an EAD gift, it connects recognition with healthy, everyday habits.
Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton Long-sleeve T-shirt - $9.49
Swag apparel works best when it doesn’t feel like a uniform, and this Gildan long sleeve is perfect! It’s durable, comfortable, and easy to wear beyond work hours. For Employee Appreciation Day, it’s a gift that can be used to show your appreciation for your employees without being overly flashy.
The North Face Unisex Ridgewall Soft Shell Vest - $72.19
This North Face vest is chosen when you want your gratitude to your employees to feel tangible. It’s useful for outdoor work and changing weather, making it more than just branded swag. Employees associate quality items like this with trust and investment, which is exactly what your EAD gifts should communicate.
Vintage Washed Baseball Cap - $2.50
This cap fits naturally into everyday life, which is why it works as another EAD swag idea. It’s worn on weekends, during errands, and outdoors. With such an extended use, it’ll make Employee Appreciation Day feel like an ongoing sentiment rather than a one-time moment.
Signature A5 Notebook - $4.49
A notebook may seem simple, but the right one can become a constant companion of your employees. With this A5 notebook, you can support your employees’ meetings, ideas, and personal organization. If chosen as a part of your EAD campaign, it can signal respect for focus and the work employees put in every day.
Ifold Slim Phone Stand - $1.89
Small tools can make a noticeable difference, and this slim phone stand is one of those! This item can be used for video meetings, content viewing, and desk organization without taking up too much space. It’s a subtle but thoughtful appreciation gift that can be used by your employees daily.
Wire Frame Desktop Cable Organizer - $6.95
Desk clutter adds friction to the workday, so make sure to help your employees stay organized with this cable organizer. Since it keeps cords visible and reachable, you can include it in your EAD swag list to show how you care for your employees even when it comes to the little details that affect their focus and comfort.
Oxford Desk Organizer W/phone Holder - $28.99
This organizer supports structure without feeling rigid. It keeps your employees’ notes and phones within reach, helping them stay focused throughout their workday.
Crumbee Desktop Vacuum - $13.25
This desktop vacuum adds a touch of usefulness with a bit of personality. It helps employees keep their workspace clean without hassle. Including something like this in your EAD campaign adds practicality while keeping things fun.
Labubu Plush Doll - $8.95
Not every appreciation gift needs to be functional. That’s why we also included this Labubu doll to help you bring character and emotion into workspaces and home offices. For Employee Appreciation Day, it helps recognition feel more human and personal.
Stackable Bamboo Fiber Bento Box - $15.98
This bento box fits naturally into lunch breaks, office kitchens, and hybrid routines. Its reusable design encourages better habits while reducing waste. As a swag idea for EAD, it connects daily nourishment with care for both your employees and the environment.
Premium Signature Crew Socks - $11.59
Designed for daily wear, these socks balance comfort and performance through breathable materials, cushioned support, and a fit that stays in place. Subtle compression and arch support make them suitable for long workdays or light activity. Gifting something this practical shows attention to the details employees actually feel throughout their day, not just what looks good in a kit.
If you want more company swag ideas for your EAD campaign this 2026, check out this catalog!
Conclusion
Employee Appreciation Day is less about perfection and more about intention. When you plan ahead and choose options that fit your team, appreciation feels natural.
With the right timeline in place and a reliable swag platform like PerkUp, you can focus less on logistics and more on what actually matters: letting your employees know they’re valued.
Plan ahead with PerkUp! Celebrate your local and global teams on March 6.
FAQs about Employee Appreciation Day
Where to order customized employee appreciation day swag online?
There are many swag management platforms like PerkUp that offer bulk and On Demand swag for EAD. Just make sure to choose the platform that can cater to your needs and can ship globally.
What are the best gift ideas for Employee Appreciation Day?
Aside from what we’ve outlined above, the best gift ideas for Employee Appreciation Day are those that your recipients can use every day. Practical, high-quality gifts will help your employees remember your appreciation of them on a special day.
When should I start planning for Employee Appreciation Day?
If you are sending bulk swag, planning should begin at least five weeks in advance. For On Demand swag, two weeks is sufficient. PerkUp Dollars can be sent on the day itself. These options give you flexibility depending on your actual needs and budget.
What swag option works best for global teams on EAD?
With sufficient planning, bulk swag and On Demand swag are great options for global teams. Just be sure to choose a swag platform partner that has a global warehousing network to ensure a more seamless shipping experience.
Does Employee Appreciation Day need to be expensive?
Not at all! Thoughtfulness matters more than price. Clear intent, practicality, and timing have a bigger impact than cost. But remember to also pick items that have good quality to ensure they can be used even after EAD.
Employee Appreciation Day 2026 is just a few months away! As a day dedicated to the backbone of every company, Employee Appreciation Day is an occasion that you shouldn’t miss.
But why celebrate Employee Appreciation Day? What makes this moment special? When is Employee Appreciation Day, anyway? What can you do for EAD, and what steps should you take to ensure that your teams will feel your recognition and gratitude for all their hard work on this special day?
In this blog, we walk you through what Employee Appreciation Day is all about, what swag and gifting options you should consider for this occasion, and when to take action so you can execute your plans without rushing.
What is Employee Appreciation Day?
Employee Appreciation Day (or simply EAD) takes place on the first Friday of March each year, which means that this 2026, EAD falls on March 6. Generally, EAD is a dedicated moment to recognize the people who keep your company moving forward with their professional contributions.
It’s a day that was created by Dr Bob Nelson, who initially used it to celebrate the publication of his book, 1,001 Ways to Reward Employees, as a reminder for employers to give gratitude to their employees for their hard work.
Why You Should Celebrate Employee Appreciation Day
According to recent statistics, 83.6% of employees feel that recognition from their bosses or companies affects their motivation at work. This highlights the importance of making sure that your employees feel appreciated, especially on days like EAD.
Consistent appreciation helps strengthen company culture by making employees feel connected to your organization and its mission. That sense of belonging often translates into stronger engagement and commitment. Recognition also plays a role in retention. When effort goes unnoticed, employees are more likely to disengage or leave. A thoughtful EAD gesture, whether a message or swag, reinforces that their work is seen and valued. Appreciation can even influence productivity. Employees who feel recognized are more likely to bring energy, focus, and initiative to their roles.
While a simple thank you matters, tangible gestures, such as swag and gifts, often help that appreciation feel more real and lasting. The key is choosing something that fits how your team works today. That could mean physical swag, flexible rewards, or even a mix of both. It’ll all depend on what your local and global teams actually need.
Choosing the Right Type of Swag and Timing for Employee Appreciation Day
There’s no single right way to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day 2026. Different teams, locations, and timelines call for different approaches. The key is understanding how each option works and how far in advance it needs to be planned, so everything arrives on time.
Bulk swag
An employee appreciation day swag is great if you’re celebrating large teams. And that is where bulk swag comes in! Bulk swag works best when you want everyone to receive the same item at the same time. Apparel, bags, or desk items can help you create a shared moment across the company and teams. Since bulk swag is produced in large volumes, these items require the longest lead time, which is five (5) weeks.
Production (3 weeks): Create and brand the selected swag items
Kitting (1 week): Pack items and prepare them for distribution
Customer approval (1 week): Review and confirm final items before shipping
Since Employee Appreciation Day is on March 6, ideally, you should be able to place your bulk swag orders by January 30. This gives you just enough time to have your items sent to production, kitting, and approval while still ensuring they’ll arrive by March 6.
On Demand swag
On Demand swag offers flexibility without sacrificing quality, as it only requires a 1-unit minimum. That’s right! You won’t have to order more than what you need because you can send only one item. Once set up, swag items are sent individually on the exact day you choose. This is especially helpful for global teams or companies with remote employees.
Place your On Demand swag orders by February 20 so items can be sent individually and delivered on Employee Appreciation Day, March 6.
PerkUp Dollars
PerkUp Dollars is an exclusive gift option offered by PerkUp. With this option, you can give your employees the freedom to choose what they want. Instead of selecting a physical item, you send a balance to your employees, which they can use to redeem their preferred swag.
PerkUp Dollars are sent on the day of Employee Appreciation Day. There is no advanced setup required, which makes this a reliable option for tight timelines.
Choose this option only if you’re rushing. If not, we’d recommend choosing swag over PerkUp dollars, as tangible items have a more lasting impact on your employees. After all, they’re more likely to appreciate your effort in picking out the physical swag you think best suits them.
What are the best swag ideas for Employee Appreciation Day 2026?
If you want to show your appreciation to your employees through tangible gestures, then here are the best swag ideas for EAD 2026.
Professional Travel Backpack - $47.89
This backpack fits naturally into how your employees actually move through their workday. From commuting to business travel, it keeps laptops and essentials protected without the unnecessary bulk. Choosing a gift like this for Employee Appreciation Day shows consideration for employees’ routines, not just a one-day gesture. It’s something they continue using because it earns its place.
Sleek Polyester Backpack - $53.59
Some gifts feel temporary, but this one becomes part of someone’s routine. With water-resistant materials and organized compartments, this backpack supports busy workdays and unpredictable schedules. As an Employee Appreciation Day gift, it reflects reliability and care.
Utility Crossbody Bag - $40.79
This crossbody bag works well when employees need mobility, but they don’t want to sacrifice organization. It’s useful for events, commuting, or everyday errands, which makes it a strong appreciation gift. Rather than sitting unused, it becomes a go-to carry option that quietly reinforces the message behind Employee Appreciation Day.
Sorbo Sip Stainless Steel Water Bottle | 24 Oz - $18.99
Hydration is one of those daily needs that often gets overlooked. That’s why this Sorbo bottle is a perfect EAD gift, so you can support your employees’ long workdays, active schedules, and life outside the office. Gifting it for Employee Appreciation Day connects recognition to wellness in a way that feels natural and thoughtful.
Tyeso Vacuum Insulated Coffee Mug | 14 Oz - $15.99
This TYESO mug becomes part of an employee’s daily rhythm, from morning meetings to late afternoon breaks. It’s practical without being impersonal, which is why it works so well as an appreciation gift.
Tyeso Classic Cola Shaped Sports Bottle | 25 Oz - $16.69
Designed for movement, this TYESO sports bottle fits into commutes, workouts, and long days away from a desk. It balances function with design in a way that employees appreciate over time. As an EAD gift, it connects recognition with healthy, everyday habits.
Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton Long-sleeve T-shirt - $9.49
Swag apparel works best when it doesn’t feel like a uniform, and this Gildan long sleeve is perfect! It’s durable, comfortable, and easy to wear beyond work hours. For Employee Appreciation Day, it’s a gift that can be used to show your appreciation for your employees without being overly flashy.
The North Face Unisex Ridgewall Soft Shell Vest - $72.19
This North Face vest is chosen when you want your gratitude to your employees to feel tangible. It’s useful for outdoor work and changing weather, making it more than just branded swag. Employees associate quality items like this with trust and investment, which is exactly what your EAD gifts should communicate.
Vintage Washed Baseball Cap - $2.50
This cap fits naturally into everyday life, which is why it works as another EAD swag idea. It’s worn on weekends, during errands, and outdoors. With such an extended use, it’ll make Employee Appreciation Day feel like an ongoing sentiment rather than a one-time moment.
Signature A5 Notebook - $4.49
A notebook may seem simple, but the right one can become a constant companion of your employees. With this A5 notebook, you can support your employees’ meetings, ideas, and personal organization. If chosen as a part of your EAD campaign, it can signal respect for focus and the work employees put in every day.
Ifold Slim Phone Stand - $1.89
Small tools can make a noticeable difference, and this slim phone stand is one of those! This item can be used for video meetings, content viewing, and desk organization without taking up too much space. It’s a subtle but thoughtful appreciation gift that can be used by your employees daily.
Wire Frame Desktop Cable Organizer - $6.95
Desk clutter adds friction to the workday, so make sure to help your employees stay organized with this cable organizer. Since it keeps cords visible and reachable, you can include it in your EAD swag list to show how you care for your employees even when it comes to the little details that affect their focus and comfort.
Oxford Desk Organizer W/phone Holder - $28.99
This organizer supports structure without feeling rigid. It keeps your employees’ notes and phones within reach, helping them stay focused throughout their workday.
Crumbee Desktop Vacuum - $13.25
This desktop vacuum adds a touch of usefulness with a bit of personality. It helps employees keep their workspace clean without hassle. Including something like this in your EAD campaign adds practicality while keeping things fun.
Labubu Plush Doll - $8.95
Not every appreciation gift needs to be functional. That’s why we also included this Labubu doll to help you bring character and emotion into workspaces and home offices. For Employee Appreciation Day, it helps recognition feel more human and personal.
Stackable Bamboo Fiber Bento Box - $15.98
This bento box fits naturally into lunch breaks, office kitchens, and hybrid routines. Its reusable design encourages better habits while reducing waste. As a swag idea for EAD, it connects daily nourishment with care for both your employees and the environment.
Premium Signature Crew Socks - $11.59
Designed for daily wear, these socks balance comfort and performance through breathable materials, cushioned support, and a fit that stays in place. Subtle compression and arch support make them suitable for long workdays or light activity. Gifting something this practical shows attention to the details employees actually feel throughout their day, not just what looks good in a kit.
If you want more company swag ideas for your EAD campaign this 2026, check out this catalog!
Conclusion
Employee Appreciation Day is less about perfection and more about intention. When you plan ahead and choose options that fit your team, appreciation feels natural.
With the right timeline in place and a reliable swag platform like PerkUp, you can focus less on logistics and more on what actually matters: letting your employees know they’re valued.
Plan ahead with PerkUp! Celebrate your local and global teams on March 6.
FAQs about Employee Appreciation Day
Where to order customized employee appreciation day swag online?
There are many swag management platforms like PerkUp that offer bulk and On Demand swag for EAD. Just make sure to choose the platform that can cater to your needs and can ship globally.
What are the best gift ideas for Employee Appreciation Day?
Aside from what we’ve outlined above, the best gift ideas for Employee Appreciation Day are those that your recipients can use every day. Practical, high-quality gifts will help your employees remember your appreciation of them on a special day.
When should I start planning for Employee Appreciation Day?
If you are sending bulk swag, planning should begin at least five weeks in advance. For On Demand swag, two weeks is sufficient. PerkUp Dollars can be sent on the day itself. These options give you flexibility depending on your actual needs and budget.
What swag option works best for global teams on EAD?
With sufficient planning, bulk swag and On Demand swag are great options for global teams. Just be sure to choose a swag platform partner that has a global warehousing network to ensure a more seamless shipping experience.
Does Employee Appreciation Day need to be expensive?
Not at all! Thoughtfulness matters more than price. Clear intent, practicality, and timing have a bigger impact than cost. But remember to also pick items that have good quality to ensure they can be used even after EAD.
Employee Appreciation Day 2026 is just a few months away! As a day dedicated to the backbone of every company, Employee Appreciation Day is an occasion that you shouldn’t miss.
But why celebrate Employee Appreciation Day? What makes this moment special? When is Employee Appreciation Day, anyway? What can you do for EAD, and what steps should you take to ensure that your teams will feel your recognition and gratitude for all their hard work on this special day?
In this blog, we walk you through what Employee Appreciation Day is all about, what swag and gifting options you should consider for this occasion, and when to take action so you can execute your plans without rushing.
What is Employee Appreciation Day?
Employee Appreciation Day (or simply EAD) takes place on the first Friday of March each year, which means that this 2026, EAD falls on March 6. Generally, EAD is a dedicated moment to recognize the people who keep your company moving forward with their professional contributions.
It’s a day that was created by Dr Bob Nelson, who initially used it to celebrate the publication of his book, 1,001 Ways to Reward Employees, as a reminder for employers to give gratitude to their employees for their hard work.
Why You Should Celebrate Employee Appreciation Day
According to recent statistics, 83.6% of employees feel that recognition from their bosses or companies affects their motivation at work. This highlights the importance of making sure that your employees feel appreciated, especially on days like EAD.
Consistent appreciation helps strengthen company culture by making employees feel connected to your organization and its mission. That sense of belonging often translates into stronger engagement and commitment. Recognition also plays a role in retention. When effort goes unnoticed, employees are more likely to disengage or leave. A thoughtful EAD gesture, whether a message or swag, reinforces that their work is seen and valued. Appreciation can even influence productivity. Employees who feel recognized are more likely to bring energy, focus, and initiative to their roles.
While a simple thank you matters, tangible gestures, such as swag and gifts, often help that appreciation feel more real and lasting. The key is choosing something that fits how your team works today. That could mean physical swag, flexible rewards, or even a mix of both. It’ll all depend on what your local and global teams actually need.
Choosing the Right Type of Swag and Timing for Employee Appreciation Day
There’s no single right way to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day 2026. Different teams, locations, and timelines call for different approaches. The key is understanding how each option works and how far in advance it needs to be planned, so everything arrives on time.
Bulk swag
An employee appreciation day swag is great if you’re celebrating large teams. And that is where bulk swag comes in! Bulk swag works best when you want everyone to receive the same item at the same time. Apparel, bags, or desk items can help you create a shared moment across the company and teams. Since bulk swag is produced in large volumes, these items require the longest lead time, which is five (5) weeks.
Production (3 weeks): Create and brand the selected swag items
Kitting (1 week): Pack items and prepare them for distribution
Customer approval (1 week): Review and confirm final items before shipping
Since Employee Appreciation Day is on March 6, ideally, you should be able to place your bulk swag orders by January 30. This gives you just enough time to have your items sent to production, kitting, and approval while still ensuring they’ll arrive by March 6.
On Demand swag
On Demand swag offers flexibility without sacrificing quality, as it only requires a 1-unit minimum. That’s right! You won’t have to order more than what you need because you can send only one item. Once set up, swag items are sent individually on the exact day you choose. This is especially helpful for global teams or companies with remote employees.
Place your On Demand swag orders by February 20 so items can be sent individually and delivered on Employee Appreciation Day, March 6.
PerkUp Dollars
PerkUp Dollars is an exclusive gift option offered by PerkUp. With this option, you can give your employees the freedom to choose what they want. Instead of selecting a physical item, you send a balance to your employees, which they can use to redeem their preferred swag.
PerkUp Dollars are sent on the day of Employee Appreciation Day. There is no advanced setup required, which makes this a reliable option for tight timelines.
Choose this option only if you’re rushing. If not, we’d recommend choosing swag over PerkUp dollars, as tangible items have a more lasting impact on your employees. After all, they’re more likely to appreciate your effort in picking out the physical swag you think best suits them.
What are the best swag ideas for Employee Appreciation Day 2026?
If you want to show your appreciation to your employees through tangible gestures, then here are the best swag ideas for EAD 2026.
Professional Travel Backpack - $47.89
This backpack fits naturally into how your employees actually move through their workday. From commuting to business travel, it keeps laptops and essentials protected without the unnecessary bulk. Choosing a gift like this for Employee Appreciation Day shows consideration for employees’ routines, not just a one-day gesture. It’s something they continue using because it earns its place.
Sleek Polyester Backpack - $53.59
Some gifts feel temporary, but this one becomes part of someone’s routine. With water-resistant materials and organized compartments, this backpack supports busy workdays and unpredictable schedules. As an Employee Appreciation Day gift, it reflects reliability and care.
Utility Crossbody Bag - $40.79
This crossbody bag works well when employees need mobility, but they don’t want to sacrifice organization. It’s useful for events, commuting, or everyday errands, which makes it a strong appreciation gift. Rather than sitting unused, it becomes a go-to carry option that quietly reinforces the message behind Employee Appreciation Day.
Sorbo Sip Stainless Steel Water Bottle | 24 Oz - $18.99
Hydration is one of those daily needs that often gets overlooked. That’s why this Sorbo bottle is a perfect EAD gift, so you can support your employees’ long workdays, active schedules, and life outside the office. Gifting it for Employee Appreciation Day connects recognition to wellness in a way that feels natural and thoughtful.
Tyeso Vacuum Insulated Coffee Mug | 14 Oz - $15.99
This TYESO mug becomes part of an employee’s daily rhythm, from morning meetings to late afternoon breaks. It’s practical without being impersonal, which is why it works so well as an appreciation gift.
Tyeso Classic Cola Shaped Sports Bottle | 25 Oz - $16.69
Designed for movement, this TYESO sports bottle fits into commutes, workouts, and long days away from a desk. It balances function with design in a way that employees appreciate over time. As an EAD gift, it connects recognition with healthy, everyday habits.
Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton Long-sleeve T-shirt - $9.49
Swag apparel works best when it doesn’t feel like a uniform, and this Gildan long sleeve is perfect! It’s durable, comfortable, and easy to wear beyond work hours. For Employee Appreciation Day, it’s a gift that can be used to show your appreciation for your employees without being overly flashy.
The North Face Unisex Ridgewall Soft Shell Vest - $72.19
This North Face vest is chosen when you want your gratitude to your employees to feel tangible. It’s useful for outdoor work and changing weather, making it more than just branded swag. Employees associate quality items like this with trust and investment, which is exactly what your EAD gifts should communicate.
Vintage Washed Baseball Cap - $2.50
This cap fits naturally into everyday life, which is why it works as another EAD swag idea. It’s worn on weekends, during errands, and outdoors. With such an extended use, it’ll make Employee Appreciation Day feel like an ongoing sentiment rather than a one-time moment.
Signature A5 Notebook - $4.49
A notebook may seem simple, but the right one can become a constant companion of your employees. With this A5 notebook, you can support your employees’ meetings, ideas, and personal organization. If chosen as a part of your EAD campaign, it can signal respect for focus and the work employees put in every day.
Ifold Slim Phone Stand - $1.89
Small tools can make a noticeable difference, and this slim phone stand is one of those! This item can be used for video meetings, content viewing, and desk organization without taking up too much space. It’s a subtle but thoughtful appreciation gift that can be used by your employees daily.
Wire Frame Desktop Cable Organizer - $6.95
Desk clutter adds friction to the workday, so make sure to help your employees stay organized with this cable organizer. Since it keeps cords visible and reachable, you can include it in your EAD swag list to show how you care for your employees even when it comes to the little details that affect their focus and comfort.
Oxford Desk Organizer W/phone Holder - $28.99
This organizer supports structure without feeling rigid. It keeps your employees’ notes and phones within reach, helping them stay focused throughout their workday.
Crumbee Desktop Vacuum - $13.25
This desktop vacuum adds a touch of usefulness with a bit of personality. It helps employees keep their workspace clean without hassle. Including something like this in your EAD campaign adds practicality while keeping things fun.
Labubu Plush Doll - $8.95
Not every appreciation gift needs to be functional. That’s why we also included this Labubu doll to help you bring character and emotion into workspaces and home offices. For Employee Appreciation Day, it helps recognition feel more human and personal.
Stackable Bamboo Fiber Bento Box - $15.98
This bento box fits naturally into lunch breaks, office kitchens, and hybrid routines. Its reusable design encourages better habits while reducing waste. As a swag idea for EAD, it connects daily nourishment with care for both your employees and the environment.
Premium Signature Crew Socks - $11.59
Designed for daily wear, these socks balance comfort and performance through breathable materials, cushioned support, and a fit that stays in place. Subtle compression and arch support make them suitable for long workdays or light activity. Gifting something this practical shows attention to the details employees actually feel throughout their day, not just what looks good in a kit.
If you want more company swag ideas for your EAD campaign this 2026, check out this catalog!
Conclusion
Employee Appreciation Day is less about perfection and more about intention. When you plan ahead and choose options that fit your team, appreciation feels natural.
With the right timeline in place and a reliable swag platform like PerkUp, you can focus less on logistics and more on what actually matters: letting your employees know they’re valued.
Plan ahead with PerkUp! Celebrate your local and global teams on March 6.
FAQs about Employee Appreciation Day
Where to order customized employee appreciation day swag online?
There are many swag management platforms like PerkUp that offer bulk and On Demand swag for EAD. Just make sure to choose the platform that can cater to your needs and can ship globally.
What are the best gift ideas for Employee Appreciation Day?
Aside from what we’ve outlined above, the best gift ideas for Employee Appreciation Day are those that your recipients can use every day. Practical, high-quality gifts will help your employees remember your appreciation of them on a special day.
When should I start planning for Employee Appreciation Day?
If you are sending bulk swag, planning should begin at least five weeks in advance. For On Demand swag, two weeks is sufficient. PerkUp Dollars can be sent on the day itself. These options give you flexibility depending on your actual needs and budget.
What swag option works best for global teams on EAD?
With sufficient planning, bulk swag and On Demand swag are great options for global teams. Just be sure to choose a swag platform partner that has a global warehousing network to ensure a more seamless shipping experience.
Does Employee Appreciation Day need to be expensive?
Not at all! Thoughtfulness matters more than price. Clear intent, practicality, and timing have a bigger impact than cost. But remember to also pick items that have good quality to ensure they can be used even after EAD.
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