In today’s business world, environmental and social responsibility needs to be more than just a catchy headline or desirable phrase — it must be a competitive differentiator. As ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks become essential pillars for modern organizations, companies are actively seeking meaningful ways to align their brand values with purposeful actions.
Enter the age of corporate gifting with intention!
Corporate gifting used to be a way to express gratitude to an important client or celebrate an employee’s 10th anniversary. However, appreciation is only one aspect of what corporate gifting has evolved into in the modern age. Corporate gifts can be a truly strategic tool that reflects a company’s values, strengthens stakeholder relationships, and also contributes to ESG goals.
Committed Trailblazers: Who is Leading the ESG Movement?
Let’s take a look at a few remarkable companies making waves with their ESG efforts:
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REI: A co-op that literally gives back 70% of its profits to members and communities. REI closes its doors on Black Friday to encourage people to #OptOutside and invests heavily in sustainability and conservation initiatives.
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Peloton: While best known for its at-home fitness offerings, Peloton is investing in inclusive wellness and has made transparency in governance and employee equity a key focus of its ESG disclosures.
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Rivian: With a mission to keep the world adventurous forever, Rivian is dedicated to building one of the most sustainable supply chains in the electric vehicle market.
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Pinterest: A model for inclusive governance and sustainability initiatives, Pinterest promotes ethical AI use and DEI initiatives that go far beyond checkbox compliance.
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AG1 (Athletic Greens): A certified B Corp, AG1’s supply chain, packaging, and business practices are deeply rooted in environmental accountability and social good.
These companies aren’t just checking boxes. They are weaving ESG into their brand DNA — and their stakeholders, employees, and customers are taking notice.
So, Where Does Corporate Gifting Fit In?
Company gifting is an opportunity. It’s a moment where your brand intersects with your values and your recipient’s experience. Here’s how thoughtful corporate gifting can bolster your ESG story:
1. Environmental Impact: Choose Gifts That Give Back
Selecting corporate gifts from sustainable, certified B-Corp, or Climate Neutral brands helps reduce carbon footprints and waste. We intentionally partner with brands that support circular economies, use recycled or upcycled materials, and prioritize low-impact packaging.
Gift Idea: A water bottle made from ocean-bound plastic or a backpack crafted with recycled textiles — both practical and environmentally conscious.
2. Social Responsibility: Empower Ethical Brands
Aligning with socially responsible brands — those that are women-owned, BIPOC-founded, or support local economies — supports your company's DEI values and broadens the impact of every gift.
Gift Idea: Curated gift boxes featuring products from underrepresented founders or community-based makers show that your brand prioritizes equity and impact.
3. Governance: Transparency in Sourcing & Fulfillment
Today’s recipients care about where products come from. Partnering with gifting companies that are transparent in sourcing and certified for ethical business practices enhances your ESG narrative.
Gift Idea: Add a sustainability impact card in every company gift box, outlining your business values and the positive footprint of the products chosen.
4. Culture of Purpose: ESG as an Everyday Value
Make gifting a year-round ESG engagement strategy — not just a seasonal activity. Use it to recognize remote teams, celebrate volunteer days, or commemorate milestones.
Pro Tip: Tie corporate gifting into your annual ESG report. Highlight the collective environmental and social benefits your gifting strategy has generated. Make gifting easy and automated by sending gifts through an easy-to-use gifting platform, like Moment.
The best corporate gifts don’t just say “thank you” — they say “this is who we are.” By aligning your gifting strategy with your ESG goals, you not only elevate your brand in the eyes of your recipients but also take tangible steps toward a more ethical, sustainable, and inclusive future.
At Clove & Twine, we believe that every gift can tell a story — one of purpose, progress, and impact. Let’s help you create gifts that people feel good about receiving and companies feel proud to give.
