The best gift cards for employees

September 03, 2025

Recognizing exceptional performance shouldn't be complicated. The best gift cards for employees offer flexibility, appreciation, and genuine value that resonates with your team. Whether celebrating achievements, marking milestones, or showing gratitude, employee gift cards provide meaningful rewards that boost morale and strengthen workplace relationships.

Why gift cards are ideal employee rewards in Canada

Gift cards for employees eliminate the guesswork from employee recognition programs. Unlike generic corporate gifts that often go unused, the best gift cards to give employees empower recipients to choose rewards that match their personal preferences and needs. This flexibility shows respect for individual tastes while ensuring your appreciation translates into genuine satisfaction.

Canadian workplaces benefit from gift certificates for employees due to their tax advantages and administrative simplicity. Digital gift cards for employees also accommodate diverse workforces with varying cultural backgrounds, lifestyles, and spending priorities, making them inclusive recognition tools.

Good gift cards for employees support work-life balance by enabling purchases that enhance personal time. Online gift cards for employees provide instant delivery and convenience, making recognition more meaningful while supporting busy schedules.
 

Our top 10 employee gift cards

These carefully selected gift card ideas for employees cater to diverse preferences and lifestyles. These great gift card ideas for employees ensure every team member receives recognition that feels personally valuable.

1. Choice Gift Card

Maximum flexibility defines the Choice Gift Card, making it one of the best gift certificates for employees. This versatile option works at hundreds of Canadian retailers, from grocery stores to electronics shops. Employees appreciate the freedom to use it for essential purchases or special treats based on their current needs.

2. H&M Gift Card

Style-conscious employees will appreciate the contemporary fashion available with an H&M Gift Card. This Swedish retailer offers trendy, affordable clothing for professional and casual wardrobes. Team members enjoy updating their work attire or weekend wear with quality pieces that keep them looking sharp.

3. KOBO Gift Card

Book-loving employees will discover endless reading possibilities with a KOBO Gift Card, representing excellent digital gifts for employees. This digital platform offers millions of ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines. Team members can expand their knowledge, enjoy leisure reading, or pursue professional development through business titles.

4. Homesense Gift Card

Home improvement enthusiasts will appreciate the treasure hunt experience offered by a Homesense Gift Card. This popular discount retailer features brand-name home décor, furniture, and household items at reduced prices. Employees enjoy creating comfortable living spaces or finding unique decorative pieces.

5. Fairmont Gift Card

Luxury experiences await employees with a Fairmont Gift Card that opens doors to Canada's premier hotel chain. Recipients can enjoy weekend getaways, spa treatments, or special occasion celebrations. This premium reward recognizes exceptional performance while encouraging work-life balance through memorable travel experiences.

6. Starbucks Gift Card

Coffee culture thrives in Canadian workplaces, making a Starbucks Gift Card universally appreciated among teams. Recipients can fuel their morning routines, afternoon breaks, or casual meetings with premium beverages. This practical reward supports daily habits while providing small luxuries that brighten busy workdays.

7. IKEA Gift Card

Creative and practical employees will value the home solutions available with an IKEA Gift Card. This Swedish furniture giant offers everything from office organization systems to bedroom furniture and kitchen essentials. Team members can improve their home workspaces or tackle home improvement projects.

8. Banana Republic Gift Card

Professional wardrobe enhancement becomes accessible with a Banana Republic Gift Card. This upscale retailer specializes in sophisticated business attire and timeless designs perfect for career-focused individuals. Employees appreciate investing in professional clothing that projects confidence and style in workplace settings.

9. Global Experiences Card

Adventure and memories await with a Global Experiences Card that unlocks unique activities and events, making it one of the most unique gift card ideas for employees. Recipients can choose from thousands of experiences including cooking classes, adventure tours, and entertainment events. This reward type encourages work-life balance.

10. Earls Gift Card

Dining experiences become special occasions with an Earls Gift Card at this popular Canadian restaurant chain. Employees can enjoy quality meals with family, celebrate personal milestones, or host client dinners. The consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere make this ideal for food enthusiasts.

Professional ways to present employee gift cards

Presentation elevates gift cards from simple rewards to meaningful recognition experiences. Create personalized accompanying materials that highlight specific achievements or contributions. Handwritten notes from leadership add personal touches that demonstrate genuine appreciation for individual efforts.

Consider timing and ceremony around gift card presentations. Public recognition during team meetings amplifies appreciation while inspiring other team members. Digital delivery can include custom graphics or video messages from leadership. Physical presentation materials should reflect your company's brand through quality envelopes or branded gift card holders.