30 best Employee Appreciation Day ideas for 2025
Employee Appreciation Day is the perfect opportunity to recognise and celebrate your team’s hard work and dedication. In 2025, this special day falls on Friday, 7th March, making it a great occasion to boost morale and foster a positive workplace culture.
From creative corporate event ideas to heartfelt gestures, team-building days, or wellness activities, there are countless ways to show your appreciation. And you probably already know that showing gratitude can significantly enhance employee satisfaction, loyalty, and productivity.
Here are 30 of the best Employee Appreciation Day ideas to help you make the most of this annual event!
National Employee Appreciation Day 2025 UK
National Employee Appreciation Day is traditionally celebrated on the first Friday of March each year. In 2025, this day falls on Friday, 7th March.
This annual occasion allows employers to recognise their employees’ dedication and hard work, making it ideal for showing genuine appreciation and fostering a supportive workplace culture.
What is Appreciation Day, and why should you celebrate it?
Employee Appreciation Day is an annual observance to acknowledge employees’ hard work and dedication across various sectors. Celebrated every year on the first Friday of March, it’s an opportunity for organisations to show gratitude, boost morale, and foster a positive work environment.
Recognising employees has numerous benefits for both the workforce and the organisation.
For employees:
- Boosts motivation
- Increases job satisfaction
- Enhances loyalty
- Makes them feel valued and respected
For employers:
- Improves productivity
- Reduces turnover
- Creates a more engaged workforce
- Contributes to a stronger, more cohesive workplace culture
Our Top 30 picks for employee Appreciation Day ideas
Knowing how to show appreciation to your staff, while being inclusive and thoughtful, can be a little tricky.
To help you out, we have curated 30 of the best corporate event ideas for National Staff Appreciation Day:
Free employee Appreciation Day ideas to thank your team
1. Employee of the week spotlights
The “Employee of the Week” spotlight is a recurring recognition initiative in which one employee is highlighted each week for their exceptional contributions and achievements. This spotlight rewards the selected employee and motivates the entire team by showcasing the value of hard work and dedication.
Price: Free
Action Plan:
- Nominate an employee who has shown outstanding effort.
- Share the recognition on the intranet or email a team.
- Allow the recognised employee to share a success story or insight.
Benefits:
- Reinforces a culture of recognition
- boosts morale
- encourages employees to strive for excellence.
2. Personal thank you notes
A handwritten thank-you note may seem simple, but it carries a significant impact, especially in a digital era. Taking the time to write a personal message for each employee demonstrates genuine appreciation and thoughtfulness. A note acknowledging specific achievements or qualities shows that their efforts haven’t gone unnoticed, making the gesture more meaningful.
Price: Free
Action Plan:
- Identify a unique achievement or strength for each employee.
- Write a personalised thank-you note that highlights this.
- Deliver the note by hand or leave it on their desk for a surprise.
Benefits:
- Builds a personal connection
- makes employees feel valued
- adds a memorable touch to recognition.
3. Recognition wall
A recognition wall is a dedicated space, either physical or virtual, where employees can post shoutouts, compliments, and notes of appreciation for one another. This wall fosters community and teamwork by encouraging peers to acknowledge each other’s contributions publicly.
Price: Free
Action Plan:
- Set up a physical board or create a digital space for the recognition wall.
- Encourage employees to post notes of appreciation and recognition.
- Highlight the wall’s posts during team meetings to add visibility.
Benefits:
- Fosters a positive atmosphere
- promotes peer recognition
- strengthens team bonds.
4. Flexible work hours for the day
Allowing flexible work hours for the day gives employees control over their schedule, enabling them to align work around personal commitments or their productivity peaks. It demonstrates trust from the organisation, showing that it values work-life balance and employee autonomy. Flexible hours can relieve stress, accommodate different lifestyle needs, and create a refreshing change from the usual routine.
Price: Free
Action Plan:
- Announce the flexible hours policy for Appreciation Day.
- Allow employees to adjust their start and end times.
- Gather feedback to see how the flexibility impacted morale and productivity.
Benefits:
- Supports work-life balance
- enhances trust
- allows employees to structure their day for productivity.
5. Extra breaks or extended lunch
Providing additional break time or a longer lunch period is a simple way to reward employees with a moment to recharge. This extra time allows them to relax, socialise with colleagues, or simply take a break from work to refresh their minds.
Giving employees extra time acknowledges their hard work and shows that you understand the need for a pause in a busy day.
Price: Free
Action Plan:
- Communicate the extended break or lunch policy for the day.
- Allow employees to take extra time as needed.
- Encourage them to use this time for rest or socialisation.
Benefits:
- Allows for relaxation
- boosts morale
- lead to increased productivity through refreshments.
6. Public recognition on social media
Public recognition on social media goes beyond internal acknowledgement by showcasing employees’ hard work to a broader audience. This is a great way to demonstrate pride in your team and to show appreciation on a larger scale. Recognising an employee or team on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram can make them feel valued and publicly celebrated, boosting morale and enhancing their professional reputation.
Price Range: Free
Action Plan:
- Recognise employees or teams publicly.
- Write a thank-you message acknowledging their contributions.
- Share on social media and tag the employee(s) if appropriate.
Benefits:
- Boosts public recognition
- Builds pride
- Strengthens company image
7. Casual dress day
Casual Dress Day offers employees a relaxed change from their usual work attire, creating a more comfortable and informal atmosphere. It’s gratifying for teams that typically have a formal dress code, allowing employees to express their style and enjoy a sense of freedom.
Price Range: Free
Action Plan:
- Announce Casual Dress Day a few days in advance.
- Remind employees to dress comfortably while maintaining professionalism.
- Capture team photos to commemorate the day.
Benefits:
- Boosts morale
- Promotes individual expression
- Adds a fun twist to the day
8. Volunteering time
Providing employees with time off to volunteer demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to social responsibility and allows employees to engage with causes they care about. This gesture shows that the company values the positive impact employees can make beyond the workplace.
Price Range: Free
Action Plan:
- Announce the volunteer time-off policy to employees.
- Share local volunteer opportunities if needed.
- Encourage employees to share their experiences with the team.
Benefits:
- Builds community engagement
- Supports employee passions
- Reflects positively on the organisation
9. Peer-to-peer recognition session
A peer-to-peer recognition session allows employees to appreciate one another directly, fostering a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. During this session, team members are encouraged to recognise each other’s strengths, achievements, or positive qualities, making everyone feel appreciated by their peers.
Price Range: Free
Action Plan:
- Schedule a peer recognition session for a team meeting.
- Encourage each employee to recognize a colleague.
- Summarize and share the highlights in a follow-up message.
Benefits:
- Promotes teamwork
- Encourages mutual respect
- Builds a culture of appreciation
Under £20 Employee Recognition Day ideas
10. Teamupp app
The Teamupp app is a wellness and engagement platform that allows employees to connect and engage through activity challenges, fitness tracking, and social features. It’s an ideal tool for remote or hybrid teams, encouraging members to stay active and maintain a sense of connection regardless of physical location.
Price Range: The price for Teamupp starts from just a few pence per user for a short challenge.
Action Plan:
- Register your team on the Teamupp app.
- Set up wellness or activity challenges like daily steps or meditation.
- Encourage team participation and celebrate progress on the social feed.
Benefits:
- Builds team connection
- Supports wellness initiatives
- Includes remote employees in team-building activities
11. Personalised coffee mugs
Customised coffee mugs with each employee’s name, a positive phrase, or the company logo add a personal touch to daily routines. These mugs can serve as a practical and appreciated gift, creating a sense of belonging and reminding employees of their valued place within the team.
Price Range: £10-£15 per mug
Action Plan:
- Order customised mugs with names, quotes, or logos.
- Distribute the mugs during Appreciation Day or a team meeting.
- Encourage employees to use them proudly and share them in a team photo.
Benefits:
- Personalises their workspace
- Creates a sense of pride
- Serves as a practical gift for daily use
12. Healthy snack packs
Nutritious snack packs filled with items like bars, nuts, dried fruit, or trail mix are a thoughtful way to support employees’ well-being and provide an energy boost throughout the day. These packs show that you care about employees’ health, encouraging them to take a break and enjoy a healthy snack.
Price Range: £10-£15 per pack
Action Plan:
- Create or purchase individual healthy snack packs for each employee.
- Distribute packs at their desks or mail them to remote employees.
- Encourage employees to take a moment to enjoy their snacks and share their favourites.
Benefits:
- Supports employee wellbeing
- Provides an energy boost
- Shows care for their health
13. Desk plants
Small desk plants bring a touch of greenery to the workspace, brightening up employees’ desks and improving the office environment. Studies have shown that plants can boost mood, reduce stress, and even improve focus.
Price Range: £10-£20 per plant
Action Plan:
- Choose low-maintenance plants suitable for desks, such as succulents or small potted plants.
- Add a small card with care instructions and a note of appreciation.
- Distribute the plants at each employee’s desk or send them to remote workers.
Benefits:
- Enhances workspace atmosphere
- Promotes relaxation
- Creates a lasting and enjoyable gift
14. Virtual coffee vouchers
Virtual coffee vouchers allow employees, especially remote team members, to enjoy a coffee break at their convenience. This small gesture can create a sense of appreciation and encourage employees to take a break, refresh, and enjoy a beverage. Offering a flexible treat can make employees feel seen and valued, especially those working remotely who may miss out on traditional in-office perks.
Price Range: £5-£15 per voucher
Action Plan:
- Purchase digital coffee vouchers from a popular coffee shop or online platform.
- Email each employee their voucher with a personalised thank-you note.
- Encourage team members to take a break and consider scheduling a virtual coffee chat.
Benefits:
- Provides flexibility
- Recognises remote employees
- Encourages relaxation
15. Reusable water bottles
Eco-friendly, reusable water bottles help promote hydration and sustainability. Customised with the company logo or each employee’s name, these bottles can become a useful daily item, encouraging employees to stay hydrated and reducing single-use plastic.
Price Range: £10-£15 per bottle
Action Plan:
- Order reusable water bottles with custom designs or logos.
- Distribute them at the office or mail them to remote employees.
- Encourage employees to use them daily and highlight the environmental impact.
Benefits:
- Encourages hydration
- Supports environmental consciousness
- Is a functional, daily-use gift
£20+ Staff Appreciation Day ideas
16. Personalised Gift Boxes
A personalised gift box is an excellent idea for Employee Appreciation Day. It provides each employee with a curated selection of items like small plants, gourmet snacks, or branded merchandise. Tailored to individual preferences, these gift boxes are perfect for National Employee Appreciation Day, leaving employees feeling valued and recognised.
Price Range: £20-£50 per box
Action Plan:
- Curate items that reflect each employee’s interests.
- Personalise each box with a thank-you note.
- Distribute boxes on National Staff Appreciation Day.
Benefits:
- Shows personal appreciation
- Provides memorable keepsakes
- Builds a positive workplace culture
17. Team dinner or lunch outing
Hosting a team lunch or dinner for Employee Appreciation Day UK can bring colleagues together outside the office. A shared meal can create lasting memories and reinforce a sense of belonging among team members. This idea works well for both Employee Recognition Day and Colleague Appreciation Day.
Price Range: £30+ per person
Action Plan:
- Select a popular restaurant or unique venue.
- Reserve tables in advance and arrange a group menu.
- Encourage team members to relax, connect, and enjoy the experience.
Benefits:
- Strengthens team bonds
- Offers a change from routine
- Makes Employees Appreciation Day feel special
18. High-quality headphones
Gifting high-quality headphones is a practical choice for Employee Appreciation Day. They support productivity and focus. Personalised headphones can be used in the office and at home, and they are handy for remote workers on Employee Recognition Day.
Price Range: £50+ per set
Action Plan:
- Select noise-cancelling or wireless headphones.
- Add a note of appreciation to accompany each set.
- Distribute headphones as part of National Employee Day celebrations.
Benefits:
- Enhances work focus
- Supports hybrid setups
- Provides a valuable daily-use item
19. Subscription boxes
Subscription boxes tailored to employees’ interests, such as wellness products, gourmet snacks, or books, make excellent gifts for Employee Appreciation Days 2024. This unique idea excites the event and reminds employees of the value they place on the team.
Price Range: £20-£50 per subscription
Action Plan:
- Identify popular subscription boxes that align with employees’ interests.
- Sign up each employee for a short-term subscription.
- Let employees know about their personalised subscription box gift.
Benefits:
- Demonstrates thoughtfulness
- Provides a fun, ongoing experience
- Aligns with Staff Appreciation Day
20. Massage or wellness gift certificates
Wellness certificates, such as those for massages or spa treatments, are ideal for National Employee Appreciation Day. They show the company’s commitment to employees’ wellbeing and encourage self-care, making Appreciation Day for Employees genuinely memorable.
Price Range: £30-£60 per certificate
Action Plan:
- Partner with local wellness centres or spas.
- Purchase gift certificates in advance.
- Distribute the certificates with a personalised message.
Benefits:
- Supports relaxation
- Promotes wellbeing
- Is a meaningful gift for Employee Recognition Day
21. Team cooking class
Organising a cooking class uniquely brings the team together. Whether in person or virtual, a cooking class offers a relaxed, fun experience, making Employee Appreciation Day Ideas enjoyable and memorable.
Price Range: £30-£50 per person
Action Plan:
- Book a cooking class with a local chef or instructor.
- Provide an ingredient list or pre-arrange kits for virtual setups.
- Enjoy cooking and tasting meals together as a team.
Benefits:
- Builds teamwork
- Provides a unique shared experience
- Offers an engaging break from the routine
22. Professional development allowance
A professional development allowance is an excellent Employee Recognition Day Idea for supporting employees’ growth and skills. By investing in training or certifications, the company shows commitment to each employee’s career path, making Staff Appreciation Day 2024 both meaningful and valuable.
Price Range: £50+ per person
Action Plan:
- Announce a professional development fund or allowance.
- Provide guidelines on eligible courses or certifications.
- Encourage employees to apply for training that aligns with their goals.
Benefits:
- Enhances skills
- Supports career growth
- Shows commitment to employees’ futures
Ideas for staff Appreciation Day, especially for remote workers
23. Virtual team building
The Teamupp app brings remote employees together by offering wellness challenges, step tracking, and a social feed for team engagement. This app is a fantastic tool for employee appreciation day, keeping remote workers engaged and fostering a sense of unity even when working from afar.
Price Range: Subscription fee applies (Teamupp app costs around £0,5 to £1 per employee)
Action Plan:
- Set up the Teamupp app for your remote team.
- Create challenges like daily steps or mindfulness exercises.
- Share progress updates and celebrate milestones.
Benefits:
- Encourages team cohesion
- Supports wellness
- Connects remote employees
24. Home office upgrade voucher
A voucher for a home office upgrade shows remote employees that their work environment matters to the company. This gesture can be used towards office essentials, making National Employee Appreciation Day meaningful for remote staff who need a productive workspace.
Price Range: £50+ per voucher
Action Plan:
- Distribute vouchers to remote employees with information on eligible purchases.
- Allow employees to choose items for their workspace.
- Encourage employees to share their new setups with the team.
Benefits:
- Supports productivity
- Personalises workspaces
- Shows care for remote employees
25. “Employee’s choice” team lunch
Letting employees choose the menu for a team lunch gives them a say in the day’s celebration, making them feel involved and appreciated. This can be a refreshing way to break from the routine, as everyone gathers to enjoy a meal of their choice.
Price Range: £30-£50 per person
Action Plan:
- Have employees vote on the menu or restaurant options.
- Place the order or reserve a spot based on their preferences.
- Enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable lunch together as a team.
Benefits:
- Builds camaraderie
- Celebrates diverse tastes
- Adds a personal touch to the day
26. Online courses
Access to an online course or workshop allows remote employees to expand their skills. Offering this shows the company’s investment in personal growth, making Employee Appreciation truly beneficial for long-term career goals.
Price Range: £30+ per course
Action Plan:
- Research reputable online course providers.
- Allow employees to decide on a course of interest.
- Encourage employees to share insights with the team after completion.
Benefits:
- Fosters continuous learning
- Supports professional growth
- Adds value to Employee Appreciation Day
27. Virtual coffee breaks
Virtual coffee breaks allow remote employees to connect socially with colleagues. They can foster informal bonding that replicates in-office interactions, making remote workers feel part of the team.
Price Range: Free to low-cost
Action Plan:
- Schedule a virtual coffee break on National Employee Appreciation Day 2024.
- Offer a coffee voucher for attendees.
- Encourage casual conversation without work topics.
Benefits:
- Strengthens team culture
- Reduces remote work isolation
- Builds camaraderie
28. Digital escape room event
Digital escape rooms allow remote teams to work together on problem-solving tasks. This fun, team-building experience is perfect as one of the Employee Appreciation Day ideas, providing a shared challenge that enhances teamwork and creativity.
Price Range: £20-£30 per participant
Action Plan:
- Book a digital escape room experience for the team.
- Set up a virtual meeting for collaboration.
- Encourage teamwork and celebrate completion together.
Benefits:
- Builds problem-solving skills
- Encourages teamwork
- Creates a memorable Employee Appreciation Day experience
29. Personalised thank-you videos
Creating a personalised thank-you video for each remote employee is a heartfelt gesture. Sharing specific achievements and qualities makes employees feel valued and appreciated, even from a distance.
Price Range: Free if recorded in-house
Action Plan:
- Record short thank-you videos acknowledging specific achievements.
- Send each video to the respective employee with a note.
- Follow up to ensure the appreciation was received warmly.
Benefits:
- Offers personal recognition
- Creates lasting memories
- Enhances remote appreciation
30. Virtual wellness workshop
Hosting a virtual wellness workshop like yoga or mindfulness allows remote employees to relax and recharge. This wellness-focused idea shows commitment to wellbeing and is a perfect break from work routines.
Price Range: £20-£30 per session
Action Plan:
- Arrange a virtual wellness instructor.
- Schedule a time that suits all remote employees.
- Encourage participation and provide follow-up wellness tips.
Benefits:
- Supports mental health
- Promotes relaxation
- Makes remote Employee Appreciation Day meaningful
How to organise an Appreciation Day for employees?
Choosing the right ideas and activities for colleague appreciation day is half of the job… But to have a great National Employee Day, here’s a step-by-step guide to organising a memorable one:
- Set Goals: Define clear objectives, such as boosting morale, recognising achievements, or fostering team spirit. Tailor activities to align with these goals.
- Choose Date and Budget: Select a suitable date, like National Employee Appreciation Day (the first Friday of March), and set a budget for events, gifts, and meals.
- Gather Employee Feedback: Survey employees on preferred activities and rewards. This personalises the day and ensures engagement with activities they’ll enjoy.
- Plan Activities and Gifts: Choose diverse activities for in-office and remote employees, like wellness sessions, team-building games, or virtual events. Include small, meaningful gifts such as personalised items or vouchers to make the day memorable. You can play the appreciation day on apps such as Teamupp.
- Create a Schedule: Organise a balanced agenda with designated start times, breaks, and activities. Ensure remote employees have virtual options, like online games or coffee chats, to stay involved.
- Communicate the Plan: Send an invitation with the day’s agenda, dress code, and RSVP details. Clear communication builds excitement and anticipation.
- Prepare Logistics: Set up the space, confirm supplies, and arrange services (like catering or guest speakers) to ensure smooth operations.
- Run the Event: Begin with a welcome message, encourage participation, and capture moments with photos or videos.
- Collect Feedback: Post-event, ask employees what they enjoyed enhancing future events.
- Share Highlights: Send a follow-up message with highlights, reinforcing appreciation year-round.
Now that you understand how to organise an appreciation day for your employees incorporating these ideas into your Employee Appreciation Day plans can significantly impact your team’s happiness and productivity.
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