The Incentive Research Foundation’s 2025 Industry Outlook reports renewed optimism in the incentives industry, with positive projections for non-cash rewards in both North America and Europe. Following a challenging year, the outlook for 2025 reveals stronger economic confidence and growing budgets for incentive programs.
Key Findings from the 2025 Industry Outlook
- Budget Increases: 59% of North American organizations and 74% of European respondents expect increases in their rewards budgets.
- Economic Optimism: North America’s economic optimism rises to 23%, while Europe sees a significant jump to 56%.
- Growth in Non-Cash Rewards: Both regions report increases in the use of merchandise, gift cards, and event gifting.
- Technology Investments: Technology remains a key growth driver, with increased investments in program technologies.
- Event Gifting: Anticipated increases in event gifting budgets are seen in 65% of North American and 77% of European organizations.
The study surveyed 412 industry professionals and also introduced insights from both channel programs and employee programs for the first time, offering a comprehensive view of the incentive landscape for 2025.
