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Out of the Box: How Corporate Gifting Employs Empathy with Every Customer

BirdieBox isn't just a corporate gifting powerhouse; it's a symphony of diverse services, from white-glove gifting tailored for elite sports leagues to bespoke offerings for small businesses. Their hands-on involvement in manufacturing ensures unparalleled customization at every stage. But what truly sets BirdieBox apart in the bustling subscription market? It's their internal ethos of empathy. Birdiebox cares about how a gift-receiver feels when they open their box. Positioned to tap into the trillion-dollar gifting industry, BirdieBox is redefining gift-giving. Birdiebox is infusing compassion and consideration into companies in an increasingly disconnected world.


Corporate Gifting (Gift-Giving) Requires a Human Touch

Starting its journey with golf gifts, BirdieBox's CEO, Pat DePirro, envisioned something grander. The company transitioned into the corporate gifting market, catering to large conglomerates and small businesses with equal fervor. Their dual approach casts a wide net in the market without sacrificing the white-glove reputation. How do they achieve this? By dedicating team members to serving larger clients with custom solutions and building a robust e-commerce website where smaller businesses can effortlessly order corporate gifts.

BirdieBox's expansion hasn't stopped there. They introduced 'Aluxe,' a suite of brands, each catering to specific niches. From 'BBtek' offering trendy sneakers and headphones to 'Hudson Cole' with its men's luggage line and 'Charlotte Lou' focusing on women's bags. 'Old Tymes' offers timeless lifestyle goods like cheese boards and tumblers. By owning these brands, BirdieBox can control manufacturing and create custom solutions when needed. For example, if a client doesn't like the zipper on one of the duffle bags, BirdieBox will contact their manufacturers and make a small batch change. They are that detailed.


Owning these brands isn't just a customization play; they are diversifying their revenue

BirdieBox isn't just a corporate gifting powerhouse; it's a symphony of diverse services, from white-glove gifting tailored for elite sports leagues to bespoke offerings for small businesses. Their hands-on involvement in manufacturing ensures unparalleled customization at every stage. But what truly sets BirdieBox apart in the bustling subscription market? It's their internal ethos of empathy. Birdiebox cares about how a gift-receiver feels when they open their box. Positioned to tap into the trillion-dollar gifting industry, BirdieBox is redefining gift-giving. Birdiebox is infusing compassion and consideration into companies in an increasingly disconnected world.



Football and Birdie Box
Football and Birdie Box

Behind their service is a profound, human-centered approach to gifting. Established by their Chief Revenue Officer, Chrissy Dunlap, BirdieBox's gifting process is transformative. It's not only about the tangible gift; it's about the emotions the unboxing evokes. It's about ensuring that a water polo player feels as valued as a basketball star, or that a manufacturer employee feels seen by their CEO.



Case Studies for BirdieBox's Concierge Services

Manufacturing Company's Heartfelt Message:

A manufacturing company sought to reward its diligent workers by gifting a thermos cup as a token of appreciation. BirdieBox saw an opportunity to elevate the gesture. In collaboration with their client, they chose an off-brand cup to include high-quality headphones in the package. Why did they pair headphones with a cup? Because Birdiebox envisioned an opportunity to step for only a minimal time-cost by the client. This box included a custom video message from the client's CEO, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the workers putting in hard labor. To top it off, a specially curated Spotify playlist was added, designed to invoke emotion and boost morale. These extra details transformed a simple thermos gift into a memorable experience. Intention is foundational in fostering employee loyalty and motivation.


Dallas Cowboys

Sustainability Company's Brand Buy-in:

When the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, a sustainability company wanted to give its employees something that recognized their unwavering commitment during challenging times. BirdieBox stepped in with a brilliant idea: a sustainable UV water bottle that helps keep employees healthy and safe from the virus. The water bottle was accompanied by a range of sustainable products that empowered employees to live the eco-friendly mission. This gift box was practical and equipped employees with items that infused the company's brand into their home life. Employees who align with the mission show up to work ready to make an impact.


Fast-Food Restaurant Owners Going Above and Beyond:

Working with the multiple owners of fast-food restaurant franchises, BirdieBox was tasked with unifying the 'Employee of the Month' gift set. The franchises' owners settled on offering one item, a designer bag or AirPods. However, BirdieBox proposed a different solution after considering what a fast-food employee might want. They realized they could maximize value with the proposed budget and offer a bundle of products. Instead of just one high-end item, why not offer a bundle that celebrates employee achievements? Collaborating closely with the franchise owners, BirdieBox curated a package that included a designer bag, a water bottle, headphones, a speaker, and a cup. This hands-on approach maximized the gifts the employee received and showcased BirdieBox's commitment to delivering value and ensuring client satisfaction.


Unboxing with NFL Player Dax Prescott
Unboxing with NFL Player Dax Prescott for the Dallas Cowboys


Why is the Corporate Gifting Market Surging?

According to Forbes, the corporate gifting industry is a colossal $242 billion market. This industry witnessed significant growth during the pandemic, and its trajectory continues upward. This figure is projected to exceed $300 billion within the next two years. The rapid growth of corporate gifting is largely attributed to the global shift towards remote work. As of 2022, 16% of companies operate fully remotely, and in the U.S., over 4.7 million individuals work from home at least half the time. This rise in remote work has amplified the significance of thoughtful gifting, prompting companies to allocate more resources to employee appreciation than in previous years. BirdieBox has astutely recognized this trend and positioned itself uniquely to offer tailored gifts that resonate with team values and company branding.


Over $100k

The corporate gifting sector was once considered a routine aspect of business but transformed into a mission-critical priority in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. As highlighted by Forbes, the industry grew to an impressive $242 billion market. The pandemic-induced shift to remote work played a pivotal role in this growth. Before the onset of COVID-19, the global corporate gifting market was valued at $125 billion. By 2019, it had surged to $217 billion, and now, it's a whopping $242 billion. Projections indicate that this figure will surpass the $300 billion mark in the next two years.


The rise of remote work was the significant driver behind this growth. As of 2022, 16% of global companies have fully remote operations. In the U.S. alone, over 4.7 million people work remotely for at least half their working hours. This change underscored the importance of meaningful gifting as a tool for employee engagement. Companies recognize the value of maintaining morale and connection in a dispersed workforce and are investing in thoughtful gifts more than ever before.

BirdieBox, with its keen market insight, adeptly tapped into this trend. By focusing on the B2B sector, they offer bespoke gifting solutions that align with a company's brand and values. In a market dominated by B2C gifting solutions, BirdieBox's unique approach sets them apart. Their strategy is not just about providing gifts; it's about understanding the evolving dynamics of the corporate world and delivering value that resonates.


BirdieBox's timely alignment with the booming corporate gifting trend positioned them at the forefront of the industry, but success stories are rarely without their share of roadblocks. Their journey to the top is often fraught with obstacles, and the ability to overcome these hurdles truly defines a company's mettle. Birdiebox's ascent was not just a result of market foresight but of resilience, adaptability, and strategic partnering.


Challenges, Partnerships, and Triumphs


Trailblazing in any industry is complex, and for BirdieBox, the path forward was no exception. They built momentum and started to acquire large clients. When an entire sports league came knocking, they faced a pivotal challenge: adapt, restructure, and fulfill or lose an opportunity to prove that they can lead the corporate gifting industry.


What was the roadblock? The sports league needed to delay payment for six months but needed the order fulfilled on time. This was a massive order, and to make it work, they had to buy products now and start curating custom boxes for athletes. A significant portion of their budget was already allocated. BirdieBox felt the capital crunch and found itself at a crossroads: find money to secure inventory or let this contract go.

How could BirdieBox fulfill the requirements of the sports league contract without compromising its financial stability? The answer lies in a strategic partnership with another organization that shared BirdieBox's keen foresight and understanding of the market.

The adage goes, "No company is an island." In the unpredictable waters, enter Star Strong Capital. At a critical moment in BirdieBox's journey, Star Strong recognized the immense potential of the sports league contract and the consistent excellence BirdieBox had demonstrated. Their intervention was timely, providing the much-needed capital infusion that BirdieBox required. But Star Strong's partnership was more than just a financial lifeline. It was a bond forged on mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision for success. They collaborated closely with BirdieBox, navigating contractual intricacies and ensuring the company had the agility and resources to fulfill its commitments. This alliance continues today.


A Legacy in the Making

BirdieBox's rise to prominence in the corporate gifting sector is a testament to their dedication and considerate spirit. From humble beginnings to their current status as industry innovators, their journey is a compelling vision of resilience. At the heart of their success is a genuine understanding of the importance of connection and emotion in gift-giving. In a world dominated by digital interactions, BirdieBox reminds us of the value of a personal touch. Their unwavering commitment to quality and deep insight into their client's needs sets them apart. As they chart their future, BirdieBox's story serves as an inspiring example of how understanding people, forging authentic relationships, and consistently pursuing excellence can lead to remarkable achievements.


The performance quoted represents past performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.


Not all investments made by Star Strong Capital LLC should be expected to be profitable.


The information and opinions provided herein should not be taken as specific advice on the merits of any investment decision. Investors should make their own decisions based on such investors’ own review of publicly available information and should not rely on the information contained herein.

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