There are plenty of meaningful branded gifts that can still land on time, even less than three weeks out from Christmas. Late planners are not out of options; the key is choosing in‑stock items that decorate quickly, feel useful, and still reflect your brand’s personality. With the right merchandising partner and a focused product list, you can go from “we haven’t ordered a thing,” to “wasn’t that a great idea?” in just weeks.
Start with cozy, winter-ready favorites
Cold-weather comfort is always on trend this time of year, and many apparel and blanket styles are available in quick-turn programs. Think soft fleece blankets, sherpa throws, beanies, scarves, and gloves in neutral colors that work for a wide range of recipients. Add a tasteful embroidered logo or leatherette patch, and you have a gift they will actually reach for all winter long, not just during the holidays.
Apparel and cozy pieces are especially effective when you want to thank an entire team. These items also photograph well for social and internal communications, extending the impact of your gifting choice.
Lean on tried-and-true drinkware
Branded drinkware continues to be one of the useful and most appreciated corporate gifts. There are any number of insulated tumblers and bottles that look and perform like high-end retail brands. Stainless travel mugs, large-capacity tumblers, and vacuum-insulated bottles hit the sweet spot between price, perceived value, and year-round utility. Because so many of these items are stocked in classic colors, they’re ideal for rush production with laser engraving or a one-color imprint.
A holiday insert card and a small treat—like cocoa mix or a snack pack—can turn a simple tumbler into a complete gift experience without adding weeks of lead time.
Food gifts that feel branded
Treats are a holiday staple for good reason: they’re shareable, seasonal, and don’t require sizing. Branded gift boxes that feature chocolates, popcorn, cookies, or savory snacks can often be packed and shipped quickly, especially when you lean on established assortments rather than fully custom builds. Add your logo to the box band, a cutting board, or a keepsake tin so your brand sticks around after the treats are gone.
These gifts work especially well for client offices and departments that will enjoy something together in the breakroom.
Practical desk and tech upgrades
Last-minute doesn’t have to mean forgettable. Practical desk and tech items deliver daily visibility long after the decorations come down. Wireless speakers, chargers, and premium power banks are consistently popular corporate gifts.
These are perfect when you need something that feels modern and useful without being too personal. A subtle, well-placed logo keeps the focus on the recipient’s experience while still reinforcing your brand every time they use it.
How to move fast and still look thoughtful
Even if the gift itself was chosen and ordered right up against the calendar, with a focused plan and the right products, your “last-minute” holiday gifting can still look and feel like it was on the calendar all year. And even if you’ve missed all the deadlines, etc., gracing your clients and partners with a New Year’s gift can be a fun, and unexpected surprise!
