Christmas Bonuses: The Lifeline (and the Year‑Long Missing Paycheck) for Gen‑Z Workers
Just when you thought office ration‑cake was your only holiday perk, a new study from Zest reminds us that this year’s bonuses are actually a lifeline for the younger workforce. It turns out that a staggering 58 % of 18‑34‑year‑olds count on those festive gifts to keep the lights on, while only 20 % of the 55+ crowd see them as a real financial boost.
Why the Holidays Matter More for Younger Workers
- 61 % of those who get a Christmas bonus would rather have “year‑round” support—like a workplace savings plan or handy discount vouchers—than a one‑off lump sum.
- Only 21 % of their older counterparts share that preference.
CEO Matt Russell is calling out employers: “If you’re planning bonus talks, remember that the next generation wants more than a quick shout‑out. Drop the ‘Christmas spa‑day’ and bring the steady‑handed pay‑in‑your‑pocket.”
Salary or Bonus? The Real Debate
- Nearly 62 % of all employees would pick a pay raise over a bonus.
- Still, 29 % of companies admit they can’t afford that bump.
- Because of this, benefits packages are becoming the go‑to magnet for talent in a tight market.
What Employees Really Want
- 46 % of the workforce says benefits matter most when choosing a new gig.
- For Gen‑Z, that number jumps to 57 %.
- More than half (51 %) would quit for a better benefits deal—and for the young crowd, that jumps to a whopping 62 %.
- When it comes to motivation, 53 % say benefits are more effective than any bonus.
With Zest already fueling perks for giants like Hargreaves Lansdown, Taylor Wimpey, ADP, and Travis Perkins, the platform is making tailored, cost‑effective benefits the norm rather than the exception. In an era where wages are stuck and bonuses look like a one‑use spice, companies may be turning to smarter, more meaningful rewards—because results show: happy, well‑equipped teams outwork anyone who merely throws a £500 gift card suddenly into the mix.
