Original Christmas Hampers
An original Christmas hamper isn't about having a rare product; it's about feeling personal to the recipient. Here are seven ways to achieve this in a company, with a set budget and without HR having to wrap packages.
Why the usual hamper no longer surprises
The classic Christmas gift box was created when all employees ate the same things. Today, in the same team, some don't drink, some don't eat ham, some live alone, and others have a family of five, with some receiving the same box for three years. The hamper is still appreciated, but rarely remembered.
Original doesn't mean bizarre. Successful hampers have three things: they suit the recipient, tell something about the company giving them, and arrive in good condition. The following ideas tick all three boxes, and most can be combined.
Seven ideas for original company Christmas hampers
- Let each person choose their own
The most original idea is also the simplest: a budget per person and a portal with over 1,000 products. The cook takes the oil and knife; the non-drinker, the cosmetics; the one who has everything, an experience. This is the model for Pekata's company Christmas hampers.
- Themed boxes by profile
Three or four different hampers (classic gourmet, healthy, alcohol-free, for home) and each employee chooses theirs. Less choice than the full portal, much more than a single box; works well in factory teams without corporate email.
- Experiences instead of products
A dinner, a getaway, a workshop, a tasting. Employee experiences take up little space and are highly memorable; they should be offered as an option, not imposed, as not everyone can book.
- Local and producer products
Hampers with a name: oil from a cooperative, cheese from a dairy, vermouth from a century-old house. They spark conversation and fit companies with a local focus, especially in locally rooted campaigns.
- The hamper that also donates
Part of the budget goes to a cause chosen by the company or each employee. The charitable Christmas hamper turns the gift into a shared gesture without taking away anyone's treats.
- Noticeable personalisation
Box with the company's identity, a signed letter, and, if you wish, a wine with your label. Originality is in the detail, not the wrapping: see the personalised Christmas hampers.
- Change the time and place
Deliver at home instead of the office, or in the first week of January, when no one expects anything. Home delivery hampers reach those working remotely and those on holiday.
Classic or original hamper: what really changes
| Criterion | Single box for everyone | Choice of hamper |
|---|---|---|
| Success | Depends on the team average | Each person chooses; no one is left with something they don't want |
| Logistics for HR | Reception, distribution and leftovers | None: each box goes to its recipient |
| Budget | Set per unit | Set per person, no surprises |
| Company image | An expected gesture | A gesture that gets talked about |
| Timelines | Bulk order, September–October | Staggered campaign, until mid-November |
What makes a Pekata hamper original
- Over 1,000 products and experiences: gourmet, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, home, wellness, technology, local and sustainable brands.
- Custom-designed box with your company's identity and a letter with your message.
- Delivery to the office or each person's home, across Europe, with tracking for HR.
- Set budget per person: the original hamper costs no more than the usual one.
Frequently asked questions
Does an original Christmas hamper cost more than a traditional one?
Not necessarily. You set the budget per person, just like with a Christmas hamper; the difference is that each recipient chooses their own contents. There are campaigns with choices starting from €30 per person.
What Christmas gift box should you give an employee who doesn't drink or eat meat?
The one they choose. With individual selection, someone who doesn't drink can pick alcohol-free products, cosmetics or an experience; someone who doesn't eat meat has vegan and vegetarian options. No one receives something they can't enjoy.
Can you mix a gift box and an experience in the same campaign?
Yes. Each employee sees products and experiences on the portal with the same budget and decides. Many combine a small hamper with an experience.
How can I make the gift box reflect something about my company?
With a personalised box, a signed letter and, if you wish, a branded product: a wine with your label or a selection from local producers. The rest is chosen by each person.