Why should I offer more Birks branded gifts than electronics or outdoor living products?
Birks recognizes the investment that a company makes in providing Service Award Programs, and we believe that the most memorable type of gift is one that serves as a symbolic, heirloom item that will last a lifetime. While we continue to offer a variety of lifestyle products in our gift offering, it is important to recognize the monetary value and ultimate depreciation of this type of gift, and the shelf life of an item’s technology and operation.

What levels of Service should be recognized in a Service Award Program?
While it is standard for companies to recognize employees in 5 year increments beginning at 5 years (10,15 etc), there is a rising number of companies today who begin their programs with 1 yr and 3yr levels-if not with a full award selection then with a symbolic memento for everyone reaching these initial milestones.

What type of budget will I need for a Service Award Program?
The value of service award gift varies but the current standard is between $10-$25 per year of service. In other words, a 5 year recipient receives a gift of anywhere between $50 - $125. Often companies will bump-up their 25 year award level as this is still considered one of the most significant milestones an employee will achieve in their career. And don’t forget Retirement - perhaps the most symbolic of all service levels!

What do you know about Canada Revenue’s position on Taxable Benefits?
This legislation continues to change so we recommend you seek further information at:
www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/bsnss/tpcs/pyrll/bnfts/gfts/wrds/menu-eng.html

How long does it take to launch a Service Award Program?
There are many decisions that need to be made, but with our Program Checklist and online account data management system (COSAR) assisting, we can review and determine the exact parameters of your program needs and in as little as 4-6 weeks have you ready to launch with your first solicitations going out.