Choosing the right present for your colleague’s retirement is important to get right. It’s a token that says goodbye, good luck, congratulations, you’ll be missed – and most importantly, ‘thank you’.
If someone from your office is retiring soon then speaking to their closest colleagues will help you find out what their hobbies and past times are – this will help to steer you in the right direction for personalised gift buying. Are they planning to travel more in their retirement? Perhaps they’re looking forward to the opportunity to do more gardening, or spending more time with the grandchildren.
Whether you’re looking for an ‘experience’ gift or a touching keepsake, here’s our top ten suggestions for retirement gifts…
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National Trust membership for two
With the extra time they’ll have on their hands once they’re retired, why not consider gifting an annual membership to the National Trust? A joint membership for two is just £99 and children under 5 go free – perfect for free days out with the grandkids to hundreds of locations across the UK.
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iPad or other tablet
If they don’t already own one then retirement is the perfect opportunity to learn new things and get to grips with the latest gadgets like tablets. Plus, if your colleague has family who live some distance away then the gift of a tablet for them to Skype their grandchildren on is sure to be very welcomed.
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Gardening set
This gift for the green fingered can be as big or as small as your budget allows. From a set of good quality hand held garden tools which could be engraved, to a unique and interesting gift of a Bonsai tree complete with the specialist kit they’ll need to look after it.
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Spa voucher
What says ‘relax’ more than a day at the spa? Perfect for ladies who enjoy pampering, if your budget allows then why not pick out some treatments or add a lunch package to enhance the day.
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Engraved whisky / brandy glasses
A great keepsake which can be engraved with a personalised message from the team with the date of their retirement. A thoughtful gift which will remind them of their time with your company whenever they pour themselves a drink. This set of two cut crystal whisky glasses from Getting Personal also comes in a smart presentation box.
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Hamper basket
A basket full of all the things you know they love is sure to go down a treat. From their favourite wine, gourmet foods and chocolates to the latest top books and films; fill it with a range of luxury goods and entertainment gifts tailored to their individual tastes.
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Kindle and e-book vouchers
Many retirees look forward to the extra time they’ll be able to enjoy reading, so a Kindle is an ideal gift for any book lover. Include an e-book voucher for them to download a few good books to get them started.
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St. Christopher Pendent
Saint Christopher is the patron saint of travellers, making this a thoughtful keepsake for anyone planning plenty of trips and holidays in their retirement. We like this silver St. Christopher pendent from The Gift Experience.
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Dinner vouchers
For those who enjoy fine dining, a voucher at a top restaurant or somewhere you know they love to go is sure to be well received. A perfect way to celebrate their retirement.
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Weekend theatre break
If your co-worker is looking forward to more trips to the theatre when they retire, why not have a look at the many gift packages you can buy online for venues across the UK? Take your pick from straight forward tickets to a show locally, to a variety of weekend trips that include dinner and an overnight stay for two.
