Gift Guide

Cultural Notes – Europe

England

Gifts are not a part of business interactions. Rather than giving a gift, invite your hosts to a meal.
When invited to a home, you may bring flowers, liquor or chocolates. For good etiquette, send a thank you message via messenger (rather than by mail) to the host afterwards.
Avoid giving white lilies as they signify death.

Germany

Businessmen and women do not expect to receive gifts. If a gift is given, the gift should be of good quality, but not cost an exorbitant amount.
A good gift to give would be a wine that is not available in Germany.

Greece

Do not give a gift at the first meeting or encounter.
Avoid too lavish and too skimpy and gifts that show your company logo.
Local crafts or products from your region are appropriate.

Italy

Business gifts are mainly given at a senior managerial level. They should be small and not too obviously expensive. The craftsmanship and quality is important.
Again, avoid company logos on gifts.
If giving flowers, never give flowers in even numbers. Do not give chrysanthemums for they are used for funerals. Brooches, handkerchiefs and knives all connote sadness.

Spain

If you are given a gift, open it in front of the giver.
Don’t give 13 flowers. It is considered bad luck.
Business gifts should not be given at the first meeting.
Avoid giving gifts with your company logo on it. A pen with your logo is acceptable.
Local crafts or illustrated books from your region/city are always appropriate and appreciated.

Sweden

Liquor is expensive in Sweden, so a gift of liquor is always welcome and appreciated. A wine from your region is a good business gift to give.