More than 12,000 U.S. employees received IKEA bikes as a year-end bonus in December 2010. The Swedish company cited rewarding team spirit, encouraging exercise and promoting environmental sustainability as some of the reasons that IKEA gave employees bicycles.
The IKEA bikes were a big step-up from IKEA’s 2009 employee bonus of $50, but they did require some assembly. Even though seats, pedals and one wheel had to be added to the partially-assembled bicycles, the flat-packed gifts were received with much joy and enthusiasm.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Rewarding Employees with Non-traditional Bonuses
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Businesses can explore unconventional ways to reward employees, such as providing experiences or eco-friendly gifts.
- Promoting Team Spirit and Employee Wellness
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Companies can develop initiatives that foster a sense of teamwork and encourage healthy habits among employees.
- Sustainable Corporate Practices
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Organizations can prioritize environmental sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices into their employee reward programs.
Where This Applies
- Retail
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Retailers can explore unique ways to reward their employees, boosting morale and loyalty.
- Corporate Wellness
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Companies in the corporate wellness industry can offer innovative products or services that promote employee health and well-being.
- Sustainable Manufacturing
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Manufacturers can develop eco-friendly products and processes that align with companies' sustainability efforts.
