CURRENT RESEARCH


Merchandise, Gift Cards, Event Gifting
Current Research

Industry Outlook for 2026: Merchandise, Gift Cards, and Event Gifting

The 2026 outlook for non-cash rewards is marked by a mix of optimism and emerging challenges across North America and Europe.  

Incentive Travel Index
Current Research

2025 Incentive Travel Index – Finance and Insurance Industry Highlights

Key findings from the finance & insnurance industry from 2025 Incentive Travel Index.

Incentive Travel Index
Current Research

2025 Incentive Travel Index – Technology Industry Highlights

Key findings from the technology industry from 2025 Incentive Travel Index.

Top Performer
Current Research

The IRF 2025 Top Performer Study: Technology Industry

Leading technology companies achieve superior engagement and business results by designing reward and recognition programs that emphasize collaboration, participant experience, inclusivity, and strategic allocation of high-value rewards to drive motivation.

Top Performer
Current Research

The IRF 2025 Top Performer Study: Financial and Insurance Industries

Top financial services and insurance companies distinguish themselves by making reward and recognition programs strategic, adaptable, and continuously improved to align with business goals and employee preferences.

Top Performer
Current Research

The IRF 2025 Top Performer Study: Automotive and Manufacturing Industries 

Benchmarks and best practices employed by top performing automotive and manufacturing companies to boost employee and partner performance.

Top Performer
Current Research

Infographic – 2025 IRF Top Performer Study 

Highlights and Top Insights from the 2025 IRF Top Performer Study

Top Performer
Current Research

Top 10 Things Top Performing Companies Do Differently 

Benchmarks and best practices employed by top performing companies to influence performance, shape culture, strengthen partnerships, and retain top talent using non-cash rewards

recognition
Current Research

Building a Culture of Recognition

The study explores the importance of designing programs that foster timely, frequent, sincere, and consistent recognition that drives employee engagement and satisfaction.

Sustainability
Current Research

The Top Ten Takeaways on the State of Sustainability in European Incentive Programs

This report explores the perception and priorities around sustainability from the perspective of European incentive program designers, third parties, hotels, corporate leadership, and incentive travel participants.

incentive travel
Current Research

2025 European Attendee Preferences for Incentive Travel

The IRF’s first-ever study focused solely on the European market explores trends in European attendee preferences, factors in destination selection, and how incentive travel program design can impact employee motivation.

incentive programs
Current Research

Non-Cash Value Perception: Identifying the Tipping Point

This study highlights the importance of determining the optimal monetary value for incentive rewards. While higher rewards can boost motivation and participation, there is a threshold where additional increases have diminishing returns.