BERLIN – November 13, 2026 -- Employee criticism of a company Christmas gift can point to wider dissatisfaction at work, according to occupational psychologist Tosca Gort, founder of GORTcoaching. She made the comment in interviews conducted by Loopper, a gifting provider whose customers are employers.
Gort says strong frustration over a gift probably means something else is wrong, such as pay, job tasks, colleagues or commuting time. Nicol Tadema, a speaker and author on employee satisfaction, makes a similar point. She says a cheaper, personal gift can leave a stronger impression than a large or luxurious one. A big December gift after a year of little recognition "will not go down well", she says.
Wageningen researcher expects employers to move beyond wine and chocolate
Dr. Machiel Reinders, senior researcher in consumer behavior and marketing at Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands, expects employers to turn more often to lifestyle and care products, vouchers or charity donations. He says food hampers should also offer vegetarian, craft-made, regional or premium options. Some employees do not drink alcohol, avoid certain foods or watch their diet.
Gort recommends a handwritten card from a manager when a company hands out one uniform gift to all staff.
Loopper owner Edwin den Hartog says the company sees employers using occasions outside the holidays more often to surprise staff. The statement is Loopper's own observation of its customers, and the company gave no figures.
The release contains no survey data or sample size on how often gift criticism reflects wider dissatisfaction.
The experts say not every disappointment points to a larger problem, but recurring criticism is a reason for employers to start a conversation about appreciation and employee satisfaction.