Introduction
Traditionally known as the festival of China it actually is known as Chinese New Year and is abbreviated as CNY. As the initial event of the lunar calendar, CNY consists of family reunion on the occasion of festive meals and the exchange of gifts. This is also a good time for businesses to build relationships with their customers, employees and business associates. One of an important characteristic of this occasion is the exchange of gifts also known as ‘ang baos’, which symbolize respect, thank and well wishes towards new year.
Since, it has become relevant for corporate clients to find new and more personal ways to show appreciation during this season, it is important to analyze CNY goodies’ giving tradition and how its message can be best conveyed to consumers both traditional and contemporary. In this article we will be looking at unique ways that the corporate clients can use to impact their recipients and make sure that the celebration is grand.
1. Concept behind CNY Goodies
It will be proper to learn about the significance of gifting items known as the Chinese New Year goodies before looking at how this is done. The custom of providing monetary blessings in a small red pocket, sometimes known as an ‘ang bao,’ developed from providing ‘lai see’ during the Spring Festival. Money kept within the money box is said to convey good tidings, par the luck, fortune and blessings in as far as the recipient is concerned.
1.1 Red Envelopes
CNY is incomplete without red envelopes and they are given by elders, business partners and even employer to employees. However, to fit modern corporate landscape, red envelopes are replaced with items with red coloration, or even kind words, good wishes.
1.2 Festive Foods and Treats
It is likewise a time for indulgence and it becomes tradition that during the Chinese New Year festival, individuals exchange special food gifts. It is traditional for families to bake and exchange home made season sweets, cookies, and pastries. For the corporate entities the gourmet food baskets with over traditional and modern products could be perfect as a demonstration of good will among parties.
2. Corporate CNY goodies
Now that we have established the fundamental understanding of the CNY tradition that has been highlighted in this article, it is time to look at the creativity has gone into making of memorable CNY gifts for the corporate clients.
2.1 Customized Red Envelopes
Standard and tradition is to put rafflesia or flowers and cash in the red envelopes but another creative way a company can use is to print the company logo or message on the red envelopes. Not only does this gesture serve to pass well-wishes for the prosperity of the recipient in the coming year, but enhanced brand awareness would be achieved during festivities as well.
2.2 Luxury Food Hampers
The best and most loved CNY corporate gift ideas include gourmet food hampers. These gift baskets can thus be composed of both traditional and modern features depending to the preference of the clients. Some options include:
- Bakkwa (barbecue pork jerky)
- Pineapple tarts
- Mooncakes
- Candied fruits
- Chocolate-covered fruits
- Saffron rice cookies
2.3 Feng Shui Ornaments
Feng Shui is a very important part of Chinese culture and it is important to put lucky symbols as tokens of goodwill. Consider gifting personalized Feng Shui items such as:
- History and fables of China (figurines of Chinese gods, carvings of mindset shapes such as the character for ‘fortune’ or ‘happiness’)
- Statues of elephants representing and featuring good fortune and high intelligence
- Status symbols, symbolizing success and wealthy.
- Previous decorations – metal wind chimes, along with positive energies.
2.4 Health and Wellness Products
More than before, there is an increased awareness and social construction of health and beauty in Chinese society. Offering gifts that embody this mindset, such as:
- Wellness tea blends
- Herbal remedies
- Ginseng products
- Juicers or blenders
- Mat used during Yoga or exercise equipment
2.5 CNY-Themed Corporate Gifts
One aspect in CNY gift giving that has not been explored yet is the incorporation of CNY theme to corporate gifts. This could be:
Those could be notebooks, planners or diaries with engraved or printed firm’s name and/or logo.
Appointment calendars and other desk items that are not available in other stores.
– Comfortable to write with, and preferably containing CNY motifs, if possible including pens or markers of high quality.
3. Corporate Gifting During Chinese New Year
While choosing the perfect gifts for your clients, employees, and partners, consider these additional tips:
3.1 Deliver Thoughtfully
When you make your gift deliveries ensure that it reflects some form of concern and that it is not just a mere fleet. It is advisable to consider the services of a courier or delivery by a senior officer of the company.
3.2 Personalize the Message
The few extra minutes taken to sit down and write a good message that will extend best wishes of a prosperous and a lucky year are worth the time. When giving out a gift, that personal touch is what sets your gift apart from the others.
3.3 Follow CNY Etiquette
When dealing with gifts, please make sure you wrap them in red or gold-colored paper preferably arranging the gift box with a red ribbon. There are also presents presented including the gifts paired in twos and threes, symbols of yin and yang or balance and harmony respectively.
Conclusion
As the tradition of CNY goodies signifies, gifting holds a special place in Chinese culture, especially when it comes to corporate clients and valued connections. When planning your CNY gifts, be sure to consider your recipients carefully and ensure the gifts are presented thoughtfully and decently. Including a delightful selection of CNY goodies adds a warm, festive touch to your gestures, making them even more memorable. This thoughtful approach not only strengthens your business and personal relationships but also allows you to immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of Chinese New Year. Wishing you a successful, cheerful, and merry festive season!