IRF's Incentives Industry Outlook for 2025 Reports Renewed Optimism

By Incentive Research Foundation

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The Incentive Research Foundation's Industry Outlook for 2025: Merchandise, Gift Cards and Event Gifting reports a positive outlook for non-cash rewards in 2025 across both North America and Europe following a year of uncertainty for the incentives industry. North American economic optimism rebounds from near historic lows to 23%, signaling a stronger outlook for 2025. Economic optimism in Europe increased from 29% last year to 56% heading into 2025.

"North American spending was down in 2024, and incentive professionals were more cost-conscious when using gift cards, merchandise, and event gifts. However, in Europe, per-person spend showed positive growth, with increased use of mid- to high-value rewards," said Stephanie Harris, IRF President. "After an uneven year, the outlook for 2025 shows signs of improvement. We see high rates of economic optimism, budget increases, and anticipated increases in the use of merchandise, gift cards, event gifting, and experiential rewards."... Continue reading.

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