Few employers play Santa

Fewer employers are spending any time at all thinking about what to give employees this year, despite the recent wave of economic prosperity. Only 22% of companies are giving away gifts this holiday season, compared to 27% in 1997, according to a survey by the Bureau of National Affairs.

Among gift-giving companies, 24% will hand out certificates for merchandise and 19% for food. Turkeys will be given away by 11% of employers, hams by 4% and a choice by 6%. Cheese, alcohol and food baskets are the gifts of choice at 13% of companies, while 10% will give toolboxes, mugs, hats, shirts, candles and the like. One of five companies will hand out cash bonuses.

Spending has changed little over the years with the average manager’s gift valued at $25 while the rank-and-file are getting gifts worth $20.