“These little acts of kindness are in some ways an indicator of the way employers feel the economy is going,” said Matt Sottong, director of surveys and research for BNA. “Employers think there may be some hope on the horizon. They’ll tell you candidly, ‘If we don’t have the money, we can’t spend it.’”
Government and private-sector ethics rules around gift giving have become stricter, but tokens of appreciation remain common during the holidays. Spending on corporate gifts fizzled at the height of the downturn as companies sought to contain costs. Sottong said businesses may now feel compelled to thank employees for “sticking with them in tough times.”
Still, if the recent lull in consumer spending indicates what is to come, then holiday sales may prove sluggish. Spending was up earlier in the year but ebbed following the U.S. default threat and subsequent volatility in the markets.
Sales tax revenues in the Washington metropolitan area were trending 3.4 percent higher than the prior year through August, but trailed off in the past three months, according to estimates from the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, which oversee the Washington area.
As we head into the holiday season, retailers are hoping to see a return to optimism. Companies, despite a possible deficit reduction “supercommittee” impasse and ongoing economic malaise, may feel a need to show gratitude. We sampled some area merchants to see what they are offering to bring a little cheer to employees or clients.
GOURMET GIFTS
Artfully Chocolate
2003A Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria (703) 635-7917
www.ackccocoabar.com
While this art gallery-chocolate shop hybrid is a staple in Del Ray, its sister cafe, ACKC Cocoa Gallery in the District, is famous for its quirky hot chocolates inspired by divas from the 1940s and 1950s. The Lucille Ball, for instance, has a hint of chipotle peppers in homage to the comedian’s fiesty personality and cinnamon for her red hair.
You’d have to head into the caféto try one of the 17 combinations, but the company does sell several hot cocoa mixes online starting at $10. Artfully Chocolate arranges hundreds of gift baskets during the holidays, according to owner Eric Nelson. Boxes of chocolates are a fan favorite, as are molded chocolate gifts, such the $3.75 U.S. Capitol mold and the $6.50 ChocObama.
Cocova
(formerly Biagio Fine Chocolate)
1904 18th St. NW, (202) 328-1506
www.cocova.com
Once called a “chocoholic’s shrine” by a Washington Post reviewer, this confectionery is a favorite for filled chocolates, truffles and a variety of bars. There is something to satisfy just about every sweet tooth, from chipotle chili truffles to blood orange caramel.
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