Office gift collections averaged £11.65 per worker during the first three months of 2026, according to an analysis of over 5,000 contributions by the website GiftRound. These collections, a common aspect of working life, often prompt questions about how much to give and to whom.
Many workers adopt a selective approach, choosing to contribute only for direct colleagues or individuals they have a close relationship with. A senior therapist in healthcare, identified as Lucy, stated she only contributes if she has worked directly with the person.
Observations from a research and production worker named Barker suggest that rank-and-file employees often contribute more frequently than those in senior positions. A former senior civil service veteran, Darren, noted that the expectation to contribute as a director became overwhelming due to frequent staff changes among the 200 people he managed.
Organisers of collections also face dilemmas regarding chasing contributions. While some, like Lucy, advocate for sending reminders, others, such as Barker, prefer a single, collective reminder to maintain team unity.