Gifts for clients are a thoughtful way of showing your appreciation and strengthening your customer relationships.
Gifting is a nuanced form of thanks and recognition, and you’ll want to give something that reflects both your own business values and your clients’.
There are many unique ways of showing your care for clients while also making a positive impact on the environment, social and charitable causes, and your business.
Beyond generic drink bottles and branded plastic waste, you can find an abundance of gifts for clients that will express your integrity and make them feel truly valued.
As Mother Teresa said, “It’s not how much we give, it’s how much love we put into giving.”
When purchasing gifts for your customers, it’s helpful to consider what kind of giver your business aims to be. According to Financial Planning Australia, there are four types of gift-givers:
- Heartfelt givers
- Practical givers
- Impulsive givers
- Simple givers
Each of these gift givers will have a different focus on budget, personalisation, usefulness and impression.
By identifying which category your business sits in, you’ll develop a more accurate idea of the gifts you’d most like to—and are most able—to give.
Your gifting category will also be affected by the type of business you run. Sole traders and small teams will have a different client relationship to larger corporations, so consider this when planning your presents.
Whether you’re at the budget or luxury end of gift-giving, this list covers a range of unique and meaningful options for your clients.
Client Gifts that are Meaningful
When your clients mean a lot to you, meaningful gifts for clients are a great way to show appreciation and strengthen those relationships. The key is to choose something that is thoughtful, personalised, and demonstrates that you value your clients as individuals.
By taking the time to understand your client’s interests and preferences, you can select a gift that shows you value them and want to build a stronger connection. Here are some meaningful client gift ideas to consider:
Pot and Seed Set
As businesses become more environmentally conscious, eco-friendly client gifts are an increasingly popular way to show appreciation while promoting sustainable practices.
A Pot and Seed Set is a thoughtful gift that will set them up with everything they need to grow beautiful flowers or herbs.
This Gift Set pairs your choice of Pop Up Pot with your choice of Gift of Seeds to create a gift that is both sustainable and personalised to each recipient.
“Innovative cute products – perfect gifts!” – Audrey Tay.
Kakadu Plum Co Chocolate
Celebrate Indigenous culture and traditional Australian bush foods with a gift of gourmet chocolate.
Kakadu Plum’s range of hand-crafted chocolate bars contain a delicate mix of native Australian ingredients including lemon myrtle, wattleseed, pepperberry, desert lime and Davidson plum.
Best of all, 33 cents from the sale of each bar is donated directly to The Plum Project — a social enterprise that helps support Indigenous bush food projects and employment opportunities.
“Love the tastes of this chocolate collection, tantalising the tastebuds and taking them on a journey of the infused flavours.” – Kristine T.
Charitable Donation
If your client is passionate about a specific cause, consider donating to a charity in their name. This demonstrates you care about their values and are willing to support causes that are important to them. We recommend using MyCause to search for approved charities to donate to that align with your client’s values.
Charitable donations, even when given as a gift, are tax deductible as long as it is a cash gift and the charity is a deductible gift recipient. Always consult a qualified tax professional or accountant to ensure your charitable donation gifts comply with all relevant laws and regulations.
Client Gifts that are Australian Made
By selecting gifts that are made in Australia, you will demonstrate your support for local industries and show your clients that you value the quality of their gift.
Supporting Australian businesses means fewer carbon miles, and products that are made to strict Australian standards.
Here are some client gift ideas that are Australian made:
Seed Gift Set
If you’re looking for convenient, cost-effective and impressive gifts for customers, choose a Sow ‘n Sow Seed Gift Set. Gift your client a Flower Seeds or Australian Natives Gift Set. Each pack contains four Gifts of Seeds, beautifully packaged in a kraft box and ready to ship for quick gifting needs.
“A most thoughtful gift to give or receive.” – Margaret Evans.
Love Tea
Show your appreciation by gifting a With Gratitude Gift Pack from Love Tea. This custom-made gift pack contains your choice of four teas from Love Tea’s stunning collection, made from the finest organic and fairly traded ingredients.
Thoughtfully designed to enhance the gifting experience, there’s a generous space on the back of the gift box to add a handwritten note for a more personal touch.
“Fantastically fragrant and yummy teas. Love Tea is my new go-to tea.” – Deborah Nestola
Byron Bay Chopping Boards
Give a client gift that will last with a chopping board from Byron Bay Chopping Boards. Designed by Sydney chef Simon Hart and handcrafted from sustainably sourced, local Camphor laurel, each board is made for today’s kitchen and can be used as an antibacterial chopping board or a stunning presentation platter.
“I bought a set of 3, beautiful boards and thicker than many boards around. I love that they are 1 piece of wood and they smell amazing too!! Definately recommend!” – Sista Awesom.
Inexpensive Client Gifts
Even small, inexpensive gifts convey unspoken value and remind the recipient they’re valued and appreciated. Avoid sending an uninspiring keychain, pen or reusable plastic water bottle and discover our top affordable client gifts below for shopping on budgets under $10, $20 and $30.
Gift of Seeds
Shopping for sustainable client gifts under $10 that convey the right message and spark joy can seem like a mission. A Gift of Seeds will solve all your gifting dilemmas.
This beautifully illustrated greeting card is unlike any other! It contains a surprise packet of seeds for the recipient to grow, and a tear-away plant label for marking where seeds have been planted.
If this gift couldn’t get any better, it’s also 100% plastic free and made from recycled waste. That’s a big tick for the environment and your budget. For bulk orders, make the most of their Corporate Gifting discount. Purchase 50 or more and receive 20% off.
“I purchased a few packets of the sunflower card seeds. Well received and affordable.” – Danielle Malpas.
Banksia Aroma Pod Diffuser
Give your clients a truly Aussie eco gift with a Banksia Aroma Pod Diffuser. This all-natural diffuser that doesn’t require electricity or flames making it both safe and convenient.
Each Aroma Pod is hand-crafted from the Australian native Banksia grandis seed pod, which is particularly porous. It soaks up any essential oil and slowly releases the aroma through its pores.
“I love these, they’re great fun and a flame-free way of diffusing.” – Anna D.
Locally Harvested Honey
Sweeten the deal with a jar of honey harvested from your local neighbourhood. Bee One Third is one of many brands that provide raw neighbourhood honey.
Their honey is derived from some of Australia’s most unique locations across the East Coast of Australia including Byron Bay, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. With prices ranging from $5.50 to $25, there’s a suitable gift size for every budget.
“This honey amazing. Highly recommend trying this if you haven’t. Loved it, so yummy.” – Nick Robson.
Luxury Client Gifts
Your client relationships are only as strong as your last interaction. When it comes to thanking a high-value client, leave a lasting impression with a luxury, rare or expensive gift. While you might spend more on luxury gifts, expressing thanks in this way is an effective way to emphasise your gratitude.
Keep in mind there are tax implications for spending over $300 (including GST) per person on gifts. But you don’t have to worry about checking the prices on the gifts below, as they’re all below the tax gifting threshold.
Kim Wallace Espresso Cups Gift Set
Warm your client’s hearts with this set of Espresso Cups, hand-crafted in Kim Wallace’s studio in Noosa. Featuring their popular blue, green, natural and white glaze colours, these four espresso cups are thoughtfully packaged in a natural kraft gift box with rose gold foil print for a touch of luxury.
“Thank you for the cups they are really beautiful.” – Dusica.
The Grampians Goods Co. Recycled Wool Blanket
Evoke feelings of joy and a sense of adventure with a luxurious Recycled Wool Blanket from The Grampians Goods Co.
Inspired by the rugged grandeur of the Grampians region, these Recycled Wool Blankets are both timeless in design and versatility. They can be used as a travel blanket, picnic rug or throw, so they’ll appeal to all kinds of recipients.
“This blanket is stunning and so cosy. Worth the money!” – Jacqui.
Contemporary Indigenous Art by Nardurna
For a gift that is deeply symbolic of Australia and rich in meaning, gift a piece of contemporary Indigenous art by Nardurna.
Inspired by her upbringing in the remote Northern Territory, Indigenous artist Ryhia Dank tells stories of her ancestors, Country and Dreamtime through pattern and design.
Her use of contemporary colours and range of palettes reflect the artist in every piece she creates. Each artwork tells a different story and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
“Ryhia’s work is beautiful and inspirational,” says Julie Obrien.
Unique Client Gift Ideas
So, you’ve made a good first impression, which they say counts. But what about leaving a lasting impression? One that’s so good it establishes long-running loyalty among your clients, business partners and suppliers?
Make your mark with these out-of-the-box gift ideas that will really wow your clients. They’re so unique, they’ll want to tell the world about the amazing gift they received!
Bread Tag Bowl
A Bread Tag Bowl is guaranteed to start a few conversations. Handcrafted in Robe by Transmutation, each bowl is made from 1,870 bread tags that have been collected from all over Australia by Aussie Bread Tags for Wheelchairs charity, saving them from entering landfill.
The unique colours come from its original plastic materials, with some bread tags still visible. While these bowls make for a fun table centrepiece or fruit bowl, they are also suitable for everyday use as they are food, microwave and dishwasher safe.
“Wonderful to see products made from ‘rubbish’ which would usually end up in landfill.” – Susan Beatty.
Lydy Reusable Lid
We’re all familiar with reusable coffee cups, but have you heard of a reusable coffee cup lid?
Lydy addresses the tonnes of landfill waste generated from coffee cup lids. Their remarkably designed lid fits on standard paper take-away cups (8oz, 12oz & 16oz) as well as ceramic mugs and glass cups with a diameter of either 80mm or 89-90mm.
Each Lydy also comes with a matching silicone bag, making transport easy and convenient. It’s a perfect gift for any sustainably-minded client who’s always on the go.
“I love the lydy. So easy to use and so effective. I love it has a carry cover case that prevents it from getting dirty.” – Nid.
Funday Sweets
If your client has a sweet tooth, satisfy their cravings with a box of Funday Sweets. These fun, guilt-free lollies are 100% natural and packed with real fruity flavour, with no added sugar or sugar alcohols.
The Can’t Decide Box includes 12 packs in total, with 2 packs each of Sour Cola Gummy Bottles, Fruity Gummy Snakes, Raspberry Flavoured Gummy Frogs, Sour Peach Flavoured Hearts, Fruity Flavoured Vegan Gummy Bears and Sour Vegan Gummy Bears.
“I love the can’t decide box of Funday because all the flavours are so delicious I can’t pick my favourite so this is perfect!” – Olivia M.
Client Gifts – FAQ
Should you give clients gifts?
Clients gifts can be a great way to show appreciation and build stronger relationships. However, there are a few things to consider before giving a gift.
Firstly, check your company’s gift-giving policies. Some companies have strict rules about gift-giving, and it’s important to make sure that you are complying with these policies.
Secondly, consider the nature of your relationship with the client. If you have a long-term, ongoing relationship with the client, giving a gift can help to strengthen that relationship. However, if you are just starting to work with the client or the relationship is more transactional in nature, a gift may not be necessary or appropriate.
Thirdly, think about the purpose of the gift. A gift should be given as a sincere expression of appreciation, not as a way to influence the client’s decision-making or to gain an unfair advantage. Additionally, the gift should be appropriate for the client and should not be perceived as overly lavish or inappropriate.
Finally, consider the cultural context. Some cultures have specific rules or expectations around gift-giving and it’s important to be aware of and respectful of these customs.
Is it ethical to give gifts while doing business?
From an ethical perspective, giving gifts during business interactions can be a complex issue. On the one hand, gifts can be a way to show appreciation, build relationships, and demonstrate goodwill. On the other hand, gift-giving may also be seen to influence or manipulate business outcomes, creating a potential conflict of interest. Here are four ethical gift giving points to consider:
Give with good intentions: It’s important to consider the intention behind a gift. Is the gift being given solely to build a relationship, or is there an expectation of reciprocity?
It’s important to avoid giving gifts that could be perceived as bribes or that could create a sense of obligation. Make sure that the gift is given at an appropriate time and that it doesn’t create any undue influence or pressure on the client. For example, if you give a gift right before a contract is up for renewal, it could be seen as an attempt to influence their decision.
Give with transparency: Be transparent about your intention. If gifts are given in a business context, then disclose this information to avoid any actions that could create a perception of impropriety or conflict of interest.
Ensure that both you and your clients have a clear understanding of the purpose and nature of the gift. If the gift is given with strings attached or if there are expectations of reciprocity, it can create an uncomfortable situation for everyone involved.
Consider the value of the gift: It’s equally important to ensure that the gift is appropriate and proportional to the nature of the business relationship. Gifts that are overly lavish or extravagant can create a perception of impropriety or undue influence and create a sense of discomfort for the recipient that could be seen as an attempt to influence business outcomes.
Be mindful of cultural differences: Finally, ethical issues can arise when it comes to the value or type of gift your give. Be mindful of cultural differences in gift-giving practices and ensure that the gift is appropriate for the recipient.
Are client gifts tax deductible?
The tax deductibility of client gifts can vary depending on the tax laws of your country and the specific circumstances of the gift. In general, client gifts are considered a business expense and may be tax deductible if they are given for a legitimate business purpose.
In Australia, client gifts may be tax deductible if they meet certain criteria. Generally speaking, for a gift to be tax deductible in Australia, it must be considered a “non-entertainment” gift and have a direct connection to the income-producing activities of the business.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) considers a gift to be “non-entertainment” if it is not capable of being converted into money. An example of a non-entertainment gift might be a bottle of wine, a gift basket, or a piece of artwork. A live event such as music or sports would be classified as an entertainment gift.
The ATO also requires that a gift must be given with the intention of producing future income for the business and not simply as a goodwill gesture or part of a marketing or advertising campaign.
It’s worth noting that there are limits on the amount of tax deductions that can be claimed for client gifts. The ATO allows a deduction of up to $300 (including GST) per gift, per client. If a gift exceeds this amount, a business could be liable to pay Fringe Benefits Tax.
As with any tax matter, it’s important to consult with a qualified tax professional or accountant to ensure that you are complying with all relevant laws and regulations. They can advise you on the specific criteria for deducting client gifts and help to ensure that you are claiming all eligible deductions.
How do you present gifts to clients?
When presenting gifts to clients, there are several considerations, including the type of gift and the ethics of gift-giving.
One important factor is the presentation itself. You want to make sure that the gift is presented in a professional and appropriate manner that reflects positively on your business.
Generic versus personalised gifts
Generic gifts are a good option if you have a large number of clients or if you don’t know their preferences or interests well. Examples of generic gifts include gift baskets, branded merchandise, or gift cards.
Personalised gifts can be a great way to show your clients that you value their individuality. Personalised gifts could include items such as custom stationery, monogrammed products, or items related to their specific interests or hobbies.
Personalising your client gifts is a great way to show that you value and understand them, by selecting a gift that aligns with their interests or hobbies.
What are the five rules for buying gifts?
Buying client gifts is common practice in many industries. However, there are several pitfalls that can occur when buying client gifts. Here are some common ones you should try to avoid:
- Overspending: One of the most frequent mistakes when buying client gifts is overspending. While it’s important to show your appreciation, keep in mind that you’re running a business and spending too much on gifts can impact your bottom line. Set a budget for client gifts and stick to it.
- Inappropriate gifts: Another common pitfall is giving an inappropriate gift. It’s important to understand the client’s culture and values before selecting a gift. For example, some cultures may view certain gifts as offensive, while others may view them as inappropriate for business purposes.
- Mistiming the gift: Giving a gift at the wrong time can also be a pitfall. For example, giving a gift right before a business deal could be seen as a bribe, which could damage the relationship. Time your gifts appropriately, such as after the completion of a successful project or during a holiday or special occasion.
- Lack of personalisation: While it may be easier to give the same gift to all clients, it’s preferable to personalise gifts based on the client’s interests and preferences. This shows that you value and understand the client and have considered a gift that is ideal for them.
- Ethical issues: Lastly, there are ethical issues to consider when giving client gifts. For example, some companies have strict policies on gift-giving, while others may prohibit gifts altogether. It’s important to understand your company’s policies and to adhere to ethical standards when giving client gifts.
What are the four types of gifts?
There are four types of gifts to consider depending on the occasion, budget, and personal preferences.
- Financial gifts: These include cash bonuses, gift cards or vouchers, and charitable donations made in the client’s name. Financial gifts are a great way to allow the client to choose a gift that suits their needs or interests.
- Experience gifts: These include tickets to concerts, sporting events or theatre shows, as well as travel packages or adventure experiences. Experience gifts can create lasting memories and strengthen the relationship by sharing an experience together. Do note that experience gifts may not qualify for tax deductions, so check with your finance professional first.
- Consumable gifts: These include food and drink items such as gourmet baskets, wine, or chocolates. Consumable gifts are a popular choice as they show appreciation while also indulging the client’s taste buds.
- Usable items: These include practical items that the client can use in their daily lives such as watches, headphones, or home decor items like vases or picture frames. Usable items provide the client with a practical gift they can use regularly. Much better than a dust collector!
It’s important to consider the occasion and the client’s personal preferences when selecting a gift. For example, if your client is known for their love of gourmet food, a consumable gift may be a good choice. Alternatively, an experience gift may be more appropriate if the client is an avid traveller.
