Most client gifts go straight into a drawer, or the bin.
That’s not just a hunch. Research from Coresight Research shows that over 60% of business swag ends up unused or discarded. Cheap pens. Branded mugs. Forgettable tote bags. It’s wasteful, both for your wallet and your reputation.
People don’t remember what you gave. They remember how it made them feel. That’s why this list goes beyond the usual clichés and cuts straight to what actually works. Smart, sharp, and yes — sometimes bold.
Here are 17 surprising and relevant gift ideas for clients, perfect for real business moments.
Tells you when to give each gift — timing matters.
Breaks down why it works, what to watch for, and how to avoid missteps.
Adds a standout option you probably haven’t tried yet. Profyle Digital Business Cards, a sleek gift that combines technology, elegance, and practicality.
Done well, gifts can:
Increase repeat business. Harvard Business Review found reciprocity boosts business. Even a small increase in customer retention, like 5%, can lead to a significant increase in profit.
Turn clients into referral machines.
Create deeper emotional ties — people trust those who notice small things.
But here’s the rub: the gift has to feel like you actually thought about it. A logo on a stress ball won’t do.
This list doesn’t play safe. Some gifts are a little odd. Some are a bit cheeky. But all are built to make your clients feel something.
Some will make them laugh. Others will earn a spot on their desk. One or two might even get passed around the team, earning you bonus buzz.
What it is: Unique digital assets like NFTs, tailored with your client’s brand. They give a fresh take on traditional memorabilia.
When to give: Perfect for celebrating big milestones, product launches, or special events.
Why it works:
Exclusivity: Provides a sense of ownership and uniqueness.
Engagement: Encourages clients to interact with your brand in digital spaces.
Innovation: Positions your brand as forward-thinking and tech-savvy.
What to watch for:
Technical Barriers: Make sure clients are familiar with digital wallets or provide guidance.
Relevance: Align the digital collectible’s theme with the client’s interests to enhance appreciation.
What it is: Digital business cards that link to apps or websites using AR technology. Clients can scan the card with a device to access interactive content like videos or 3D models.
When to gift: Perfect for networking events, trade shows, or initial client meetings to leave a lasting impression.
Why it works:
Interactivity: Transforms a static card into an engaging experience.
Memorability: Clients are more likely to remember and retain interactive materials.
Analytics: Track engagement metrics to assess interest and follow up effectively.
What to watch for:
Compatibility: Check that the AR features are accessible across various devices.
Content Quality: High-quality visuals and relevant information are crucial for impact.
Ready to make a lasting impression? Sign up for a free Profyle Digital Business Card here.
A PPAI study found that 83% of people are more likely to do business with a company after getting a promotional product they connect with.
What it is: A small Bluetooth speaker that plays a custom audio message. This could be a sweet thank-you or an uplifting note.
When to give: Ideal after completing a significant project, reaching a milestone, or as a surprise appreciation gesture.
Why it works:
Personal Touch: Adds a unique, emotional element that standard gifts lack.
Utility: Serves as a functional item clients can use daily.
Memorability: The personalised message guarantees your brand stays top-of-mind.
What to watch for:
Audio Quality: Double check the recording is clear and professional.
Content Appropriateness: Tailor the message to suit the client’s preferences and company culture.
What it is: A custom-designed canvas print featuring a meme tailored to your client’s interests or shared experiences.
When to gift: Perfect for long-standing clients with whom you share inside jokes or memorable moments.
Why it works:
Humour: Injects fun into the professional relationship.
Personalisation: Demonstrates attention to detail and understanding of the client’s personality.
Conversation Starter: This item adds a unique touch to office decor and sparks discussions.
What to watch for:
Appropriateness: Make sure the meme aligns with the client’s sense of humour and company values.
Quality: Invest in high-quality printing to make the artwork stand out.printful.com
Also, check out the selection on RedBubble.
What it is: A special gift box filled with products from your brand and a local artisan. It’s designed to match the client’s interests.
When to give:
After signing a contract.
During cross-promotional events.
To celebrate a successful partnership.
Why it works:
Personalisation: Demonstrates thoughtfulness by aligning with the client’s preferences.
Support Local: Highlights community engagement and support for local businesses.
Memorability: Creates a unique experience that stands out from generic gifts.
What to watch for:
Brand Alignment: See that the collaborator’s values and aesthetics align with your client’s.
Quality Control: Vet all products for quality to maintain your brand’s reputation.
What it is: Custom artwork that turns business data into beautiful visuals. This includes things like sales growth and project milestones.
When to give:
For annual reviews
To celebrate big achievements
As a thank you for long-term clients
Why it works:
Recognition: Acknowledges the client’s successes and your role in them.
Conversation Starter: Serves as a unique piece of office decor that sparks interest.
Emotional Impact: Transforms data into a tangible representation of progress.
What to watch for:
Data Accuracy: Certify that all visualised data is correct and up-to-date.
Design Sensitivity: Tailor the design to match the client’s brand and office aesthetics.
What it is: A sleek digital business card with NFC. It helps clients share their contact info easily.
When to give Perfect for kick-off meetings, networking events, or as a modern alternative to traditional business cards.
Why it works:
Convenience: Simplifies the process of sharing and updating contact information.
Innovation: Positions your client as tech-savvy and forward-thinking.
Sustainability: Reduces paper waste associated with traditional business cards.
What to watch for:
User Training: Provide a brief tutorial to help make sure the client can use it effectively.
Compatibility: Confirm that the client’s devices support NFC technology.
Want to leave a lasting impression? Sign up for a free Profyle Digital Business Card here.
What it is: A set of travel-friendly sleep essentials. It includes eye masks, earplugs, and aromatherapy sprays. These items help you rest better while on the go.
When to gift: Ideal for clients who frequently travel or have demanding schedules that require quality rest.
Why it works:
Personalisation: Tailored to the client’s preferences, showing thoughtfulness.
Utility: Provides practical items that improve travel comfort.
Brand Visibility: Custom branding keeps your company top-of-mind.
What to watch for:
Quality Assurance: Look at if all items meet comfort and safety standards.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of scents or materials that may not be universally appreciated.
The PeppyCurator offers a nice variant.
What it is: A package with items for quick, fun adventures. It includes portable hammocks, trail maps, and local experience vouchers.
When to gift: Perfect for clients who appreciate outdoor activities or need a nudge to take a break.
Why it works:
Encourages Wellness: Promotes work-life balance and mental health.
Memorable Experience: Creates lasting impressions through unique activities.
Brand Association: Aligns your brand with positive, rejuvenating experiences.
What to watch for:
Relevance: Be careful that the contents match the client’s interests and lifestyle.
Logistics: Consider the client’s location and accessibility to suggested activities.
What it is: A custom playlist made just for your client. It’s delivered in a unique vinyl sleeve, blending the classic feel of vinyl with today’s digital music.
When to gift: Great for celebrating milestones, anniversaries, or as a nice gesture after a successful project.
Why it works:
Personal Touch: Demonstrates attention to the client’s musical tastes and preferences.
Tangible Keepsake: The vinyl sleeve serves as a physical reminder of your relationship.
Conversation Starter: Encourages discussions about shared musical interests.
What to watch for:
Music Selection: Think through that the playlist aligns with the client’s preferences to avoid missteps.
Quality of Presentation: Invest in high-quality printing for the vinyl sleeve to make a lasting impression.
What it is: Premium non-alcoholic beverage. Say, such as aged botanical spirits, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional liquors.
When to give: Ideal for clients who enjoy fine dining or prefer non-alcoholic options.
Why it works:
Inclusivity: Caters to a broader range of preferences and dietary restrictions.
Sophistication: Conveys elegance and attention to detail.
Health-Conscious: Aligns with wellness trends and mindful consumption.
What to watch for:
Taste Profile: Select flavors that align with the client’s palate.
Presentation: Invest in high-quality packaging to enhance the unboxing experience.
What it is: A special invitation that gives clients a look at your company’s operations. This includes private webinars, early product previews, and direct chats with your team.
When to gift: Ideal for long-term clients, during major product launches, or as a token of appreciation for loyal partnerships.
Why it works:
Exclusivity: Makes clients feel valued and part of an inner circle.
Engagement: Encourages deeper involvement with your brand.
Transparency: Builds trust by showcasing your company’s inner workings.
What to watch for:
Relevance: Check that the content shared aligns with the client’s interests.
Accessibility: Provide easy access to the exclusive materials or events.
Want to leave a lasting impression? Sign up for a free Profyle Digital Business Card here.
What it is: A custom video that tells the client’s story. It shows their journey, milestones, and achievements. This highlights their growth and your part in their success.
When to gift: Perfect for anniversaries, major accomplishments, or as a heartfelt thank-you.
Why it works:
Personal Touch: Demonstrates deep appreciation and understanding of the client’s journey.
Clients can share the animation on their platforms. This boosts visibility for everyone involved.
Memorability: Creates a lasting impression through storytelling.
What to watch for:
Accuracy: Make sure the story accurately reflects the client’s experiences.
Tone: Maintain a tone that aligns with the client’s brand and values.
Want to leave a lasting impression? Sign up for a free Profyle Digital Business Card here.
What it is: A special collection of items, messages, or tokens in a sealed container. It’s meant for the client to open after a year.
When to gift: Ideal at the commencement of a new partnership, project kickoff, or to commemorate a significant milestone.
Why it works:
Anticipation: Builds a sense of excitement and curiosity over time.
Personal Connection: Demonstrates foresight and investment in the client’s journey.
Memorability: Creates a lasting impression that extends beyond the initial gifting moment.
What to watch for:
Relevance: Go through the capsule and check that the contents are meaningful and tailored to the client’s interests.
Presentation: Use durable and aesthetically pleasing packaging to improve the experience.
What it is: A sleek digital business card with NFC. Clients can share their contact info easily.
When to gift: Perfect for kick-off meetings, networking events, or as a modern alternative to traditional business cards.
Why it works:
Convenience: Simplifies the process of sharing and updating contact information.
Innovation: Positions your client as tech-savvy and forward-thinking.
Sustainability: Reduces paper waste associated with traditional business cards.
What to watch for:
User Training: Provide a brief tutorial to make sure the client can use it effectively.
Compatibility: Confirm that the client’s devices support NFC technology.
Want to leave a lasting impression? Sign up for a free Profyle Digital Business Card here.
The kind people remember. That means gifts that:
Say something about them (not just you),
Are useful or meaningful,
Don’t feel like leftovers from your last trade show.
A gift doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to feel like it came from a human, not a marketing budget.
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
New lead? £10–£30 — small and thoughtful.
Loyal, repeat client? £50–£100 — quality and relevance matter.
Top-tier, long-time partner? £100–£250+ — go bold, go custom.
Tip: If you wouldn’t use it yourself, don’t send it to someone else.
Classic moments:
After signing a contract
At project completion
During holidays (but beat the crowd)
Client birthdays or business anniversaries
Unexpected wins: “just because” gifts sent mid-year often stand out more than the usual Christmas pile.
Yes — if you make it all about you. Branded tote bags, mugs, and pens often scream “freebie” instead of “thanks.”
Gifts should feel personal and thoughtful. Add a short handwritten note, not a pitch. It’s appreciation, not advertising.
Tread carefully. In finance, law, health care, or government spaces, there are often rules around gifting.
Instead, try:
A donation in their name
A personalised e-card or experience
A Profyle Digital Card with a warm thank-you message
Safe, smart, and no red tape.
Go digital. Or go light. Good picks:
Profyle Digital Business Cards
Curated local experience boxes (delivered where they are)
Subscriptions or online services
Sleep kits or compact travel tools
Avoid anything that melts, breaks, or needs customs forms in triplicate.
No. Branding should whisper, not shout.
Subtle logo on the back of a notebook? Fine.
Giant company name across a hoodie? Maybe not.
If the gift is good, they’ll remember where it came from — no billboard needed.
They’re one of the smartest business gifts you can send right now. Why?
They look sharp and feel modern.
They’re useful daily — not just once.
You can personalise them for your client.
They make your client look good, too.
Give one when you want to start strong or say, “I’ve got your back.” Send it with a short video, and boom — instant connection.
Want to try it for yourself? Create a free Profyle Digital Card here.
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