Our company usually sends an email. My location typically orders donuts or some sort of treat for staff. I like to send an email to staff reminding them of our extras benefits (professional development, wellness, etc) around this time of year.

I agree with the comment above that investing in their employees is best and while increased compensation is nice, something as simple as putting together packages to send to each employee would brighten everyones day!

Our company doesn't recognize it. The one thing that I've always found a little "off" is that any gift cards of appreciation end up coming out of our paychecks. So, if you're counting on x dollars being in your account for your pay - you'll see it reduced by the taxable amount of the "gift" you received. I've never thought it good to end up penalized for recognition. The other things they do for employees are luncheons or dinners. The luncheons always occur on a day that I'm guaranteed to not be able to attend (due to the nature of my position) and there's no other recognition they provide. The dinners always start at 4 or 4:30 and I'm often required to work until 5:00 and then have to drive 30 minutes to get my daughter, to then drive 30 minutes back for an event that usually ends at 6 or 6:30 - so don't get to attend those, either. So - biggest thing for those in HR - make sure the "perks" and appreciations are items that can be used and have alternatives available for those who would enjoy the recognition but their life doesn't allow for that to occur.

I'll probably just send an email to everyone like I did last year. Our company doesn't really recognize it. I did last year...and surprised everyone...no one had ever done something like that before.

Being told your appreciated is always well received :)

I often think that the best way employers can invest in their employees is by giving them what they want/work for: Increased compensation (bonuses, gift cards, etc.).