Using Gift Cards as Part of Your Peer-to-Peer Human Resource Strategy

In 2026, more companies are utilizing gift cards as a monthly strategy rather than reserving them solely for year-end gifts.

Where companies once made annual purchases of gift cards to reward employees, they are now recognizing the benefits of using gift cards as a reliable and easy tool for training, retention, customer service, and overall human resource strategy.

In the area of human resources, companies both large and small are choosing gift cards as rewards within their peer-to-peer programs. A 2025 Canadian Human Resource study across Canada indicated that peer-to-peer programs are among the most effective ways to recognize staff. Whether a company uses a points system, e-card system, or nomination program, offering a variety of gift cards that recipients can choose from is key to employee satisfaction. Flexibility and convenience are cited as essential components of any strong reward program.

Gift cards are also being used effectively as training rewards. Training is an ongoing necessity as technology and information continue to change rapidly across all sectors of the economy. Employees, however, often view ongoing training as time-consuming and overwhelming. Companies that introduce rewards for training have seen a marked improvement in employee morale and perception. Even something as simple as a coffee card, food delivery card, or grocery card can positively shift attitudes toward mandatory training programs.

The benefits of increased employee recognition have long been measurable. Recognition boosts employee engagement, reduces absenteeism, lowers turnover, improves productivity, and helps build a positive workplace culture. Peer-to-Peer programs are now viewed as more effective at increasing employee satisfaction than traditional top-down recognition models.

The power of appreciation is a low-cost, effective practice that companies of all sizes can implement with ease.