The municipalities of Heemstede and Bloemendaal together thanked over 640 employees and associates with Cadeo. In recent years, they traditionally organized this with a Christmas market featuring local entrepreneurs. That was well-received, but this time they wanted to refresh the concept, and partnered with Cadeo. Everyone received a personal gift link and chose their own gift that suited them. For us, it was also a fun project close to home: our founders come from the municipality of Heemstede.

Personal from the very first moment

Anyone who opened the gift link was not greeted by a standard text. The municipal secretaries of Heemstede and Bloemendaal had recorded a personal thank-you video together, which the recipients immediately saw in the portal. A small gesture that makes all the difference: as a recipient, you immediately notice that thought has gone into it. It took the experience to a very personal level.

And we saw that reflected in the numbers. Of the 640 recipients, over 91% actually chose a gift, and the campaign received a satisfaction rating of 9.5. Additionally, more than a third of the recipients spontaneously sent back a personal thank-you. Not only nice to read back, but also useful to see how people received the gift and what gifts they chose. A selection of the responses:

"Thank you so much! What a great Christmas gift. I am happy that I can donate this to the food bank."

"Thank you for this beautiful Christmas package. I'm a fan! Responsible, lots of fun options, user-friendly. Great choice for a Christmas gift!"

"Thank you for this Christmas token. My gift choice is a donation to the Dutch Cancer Society (KWF) as a symbol/reminder of the colleagues we have lost this year and in recent years."

Freedom of choice that works

The best proof that freedom of choice works: the recipients together chose 110 different gifts and options. From the Fashioncheque (the absolute favorite) to a DIY gift card or a good book. Everyone found something that truly suited them, instead of that same standard package for the entire organization - which often ends up unused in the cupboard or the bin for many people.

A significant portion also chose to donate instead of spending. Together, 58 recipients raised over €1,350 for 14 different charities, with the Dutch Council for Refugees, the Animal Protection Society, and Doctors Without Borders leading the way. And because over eight out of ten recipients chose a digital option, a lot of packaging material and shipping emissions were also saved.

All in all, a year-end campaign that everyone was highly pleased with.

And again next year

Proof that it was a success: Heemstede and Bloemendaal have renewed with Cadeo for Christmas 2026. A year-end gift that is personal and sustainable, where recipients decide for themselves and where there is also room for charity. We are very proud of this pleasant collaboration.

Curious about what Cadeo can do for your organization? You can schedule an introduction without obligation. We are happy to help you on your way!