A corporate annual dinner in Taiwan went viral after it was revealed that every staff member received an iPhone 17 Pro Max — with no lucky draw required. The announcement was displayed on a large screen during the event, reading: “Employee gift reveal! iPhone 17 Pro Max – thank you for your contribution.”
Staff members were required to show valid employee IDs to collect their gifts. Reports indicate that around 200 employees attended, with other sources mentioning 20+ tables and roughly 300 staff present at the dinner.
Even though the iPhones stole the spotlight, a lucky draw was still held, featuring a top cash prize of NT$101,000 (approximately S$4,097). Despite the draw, attendees overwhelmingly regarded the iPhones as the highlight of the evening.
Social Media Reacts to Generous Year-End Gift
The story quickly spread on social media, with netizens initially assuming it was just a high-end lucky draw. Reactions ranged from amazement to envy, with many calling it “the most insane year-end gift” and jokingly asking if the company was hiring.
One attendee shared that the crowd erupted in cheers when the announcement was made, even though some had purchased a new iPhone the previous year. The decision to gift all staff the same high-value item was widely praised for its fairness and generosity.
This unusual gesture has sparked discussions online about employee appreciation and corporate culture, highlighting how companies can motivate and reward teams effectively. Many netizens noted that equitable recognition can strengthen staff morale and loyalty.
Corporate Appreciation Trends and Employee Motivation
Experts in workplace engagement note that giving high-value gifts to all employees, rather than a few via a lucky draw, creates a sense of inclusivity and shared recognition. Such gestures are increasingly seen as a powerful tool in employee retention and motivation strategies.
The viral story also underscores the impact of social media in showcasing corporate culture, with companies gaining attention and positive branding when generosity is displayed publicly. Tech gifts like the iPhone 17 Pro Max carry both symbolic and practical value, reinforcing the company’s investment in its staff.
For companies looking to boost employee satisfaction and engagement, the Taiwanese firm’s approach offers a model of transparent and fair recognition, turning a standard annual dinner into a memorable and motivating event.