2023 Corporate Gifts and Apparel Trends

Corporate gifting is not like it used to be. In the wake of pandemic shutdowns, the workplace, in general, has sustained major changes—it’s likely that our office experience will never go back to pre-pandemic patterns. As people endured the pandemic from home, corporate gifting became a necessary way to connect with remote team members. When workers returned to the office, companies gave thoughtful branded company gifts to show their thankfulness for a job well done during difficult circumstances.

Whether welcoming new employees in the current "Great Hire" surge, giving employee appreciation gifts to longstanding colleagues, or simply planning ahead for corporate holiday gifts - Merchology can help you find the perfect company gifts.

What Will People Value in 2023?

As we look forward to the merchandise trends of 2023, societal shifts from the past few years are reflected in the fashion, merch, and design predictions from trend experts. Themes of wellness, work-life balance, and seeking new experiences dominate the merch trend reports of 2023. Let’s dive into the merch trend predictions for this exciting upcoming year!

To begin to understand people’s needs and desires when it comes to fashion and merch, we need to understand what consumers will focus on and value this year. Throughout 2023 consumers, employees, and clients alike will be keeping the following key values in mind.

Sustainability & Nature in Corporate Gifting

In 2023, consumers want to know that their products will make a sustainable difference. Sustainability is no longer simply an option, it’s a necessity. More than 80% of companies are expecting to invest more in their sustainability initiatives over the next few years. Sustainability is the largest generator of new ideas in the merch industry, and with countless innovative new products available, employees and clients will be looking for sustainable corporate gifts and apparel. People also want simple, organic shapes, lines, and colors that reflect nature.

Sustainability in Fashion and Corporate Apparel

• Consumers are willing to pay a bit more for luxury pieces that can be re-worn and stand the test of time.
• Custom corporate apparel made from recycled materials
• Ethically-sourced garments
• People want clean, simple lines and shapes, which aligns with this year’s focus on beauty, simplicity, and reusability.

Sustainability in Corporate Gifts

• Products made from recycled materials
• FSC paper and packaging
• Low-waste products and packaging
• Brand partnerships that highlight sustainability

 

---

Advanced Technology for 2023 Corporate Gifts

In the next few years, consumers want technology to blend seamlessly into their work and home lives. People want items that make life convenient without taking up a lot of space—think invisible tech. Multi-functional, lightweight, high-quality technology will be in demand in 2023. This includes products that streamline business travel and WFH to make remote work more convenient. From clothes to electronics, new technology is an important theme for this year.

 

Advancing Technology in Fashion and Corporate Apparel

• Workwear that does more: high tech materials and styles
• New, innovative designs that shift from athleisure to “Everyday Wear, but Elevated”. 
• Flexible styles that can be altered for all genders/body types will become more widespread.
• Fresh, Gen Z takes on 90s-2000s nostalgia

Advancing Technology in Corporate Gifts

• Innovative technology in every category from custom smart drinkware to bags to apparel
• Virtual gifts that people want to share on social media
• Products that support remote work and business travel
• Modular pieces (multi-piece cookware, furniture, etc.)

---

Health, Wellness, and Inclusivity in 2023 Company Gifts 

More than half of adults in the US integrate wellness practices into their daily lives. As a whole, we’re taking a step back to look at our physical and mental health. The pandemic highlighted many overarching issues with people’s health and wellness, and now that life feels largely normal again for many communities, we have to decide how health and wellness looks in our daily lives. Not only will health be a priority, but so will experiences: products that support travel, spa weekends, home décor, and entertaining will be trending in 2023.

Beyond mental and physical self-care, corporate apparel in gifting will be focused on inclusivity in 2023. From size inclusivity from top brands to ensure that everyone feels comfortable to unisex and nonbinary apparel to help everyone on the team express themselves no matter their orientation or presentation. 

Health, Wellness, & Care in Fashion and Corporate Apparel

• Activewear and athleisure to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle
• Pastels, green color pallets, and calming colors
• Size inclusivity in various clothing and fitness apparel brands such as lululemon, Merrel, and more
• Additionally, eye-catching colors and textures, including sequins and metallics for to express joy and individualism
• Cozy comfort to promote relaxation
• Elevated everyday wear to separate life from work

Health, Wellness, & Care in 2023 Corporate Gifts

• Corporate gifts for home offices as people settle into full-time remote work
• Cozy gifts, soft textiles, and a focus on comfort
• Using home as a relaxing escape from the stresses of the outside world
• Gifts that support mindfulness and mental wellbeing
• Custom outdoor gear that allows recipients to experience the health benefits of nature
• Wellness gifts that promote active lifestyles, healthy eating, hydration, and sleep

---

Guide to Corporate Gifting in 2023

This year, corporate gifting is more important than ever. Thoughtful company gifts will keep you on top of hiring trends, connect employees whether they're in-office or remote, and promote health and wellness for your team! Let’s take a closer look at the specific branded products that will meet your 2023 corporate gifting and apparel needs!

Sustainably-Minded Company Gifts for 2023

• Add your logo to the Logo-Branded Tentree Women's Hi Rise Grey Space Dye Classic Hoodie for a sustainable, versatile casual workwear piece.
• The Custom Zusa Black Heather Weekender Duffel promotes sustainability, functionality, and embarking on new adventures.

 

 

High-Tech Custom Company Gifts

• A pair of Custom Leeds Black Bloom Bamboo True Wireless Auto Pair Earbuds is a branded gift that’s perfect for remote work, commuting, and business travel.
• Give the Logo-Embroidered Elevate Men's Quarry Junction Packable Insulated Vest to the adventure lovers on your team so they can take on new experiences.

Company Gifts for Mental & Physical Health

• The Branded Field & Co. Cable Knit Sherpa Blanket is the ultimate gift for coziness and comfort. It’s a great corporate travel companion, and it makes a thoughtful client gift.
• The Logo-Printed Seventh Avenue Apothecary White Tea and Fig 11 oz Glass Jar Candle is perfect for taking time for mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation.

 

Contact Us at Merchology

Need help finding the perfect corporate gifts that fit the merch trends for 2023? Contact Us at Merchology for help finding branded gifts that incorporate sustainability, wellness, and innovative technology!