Healthy Workforce Act & Promotional Products

In April of 2009, the Healthy Workforce Act of 2009 was introduced to the Senate and House for consideration. This legislation would give a tax credit to employers who implement wellness programs. An employer would receive a 50% tax credit for the costs of providing employees with a qualified wellness program up to $200 for the first 200 employees and $100 for each employee above that. Wow, what an incentive, plus the employer will see the benefits when the cost of their insurance decreases and they see increased productivity from their energized employees.
However, what will motivate employees to participate in the program? Employers will need to provide incentives to join the program and recognize achievements for those who continue. These items can include anything from water bottles, towels and pedometers to bags and watches. Making a contest for the participants to strive for also offers the opportunity to recognize the participants with trophies and other awards. These are tangible things that can be kept at their desks to remind them and others of the achievements realized through the wellness program.
Ask your promotional products professional for other creative ideas that can help your employees reach their fitness goals. You can check out some ideas at www.artina.com or just give us a call at 800.433.5587.

Fitness and promotional products

Did you know that this week was fitness week? I didn't either, so don't worry about that. Even though this week was the "official" fitness week, you can incorporate fitness into your work life every week. Many companies are promoting wellness programs with discounted gym memberships, weight loss challenges etc. Promotional products are a great way to promote your programs and keep people motivated to lose the weight and get in better shape. People spend more waking hours at work than anywhere else, so workplace wellness is critical for setting the tone for their eating and exercise habits.
Employers also realize several benefits to providing a workplace wellness program.
1. Enhanced recriutment and retention of healthy employees.
2. Reduced health care costs - from 20-55%
3. Decreased rates of illness and/or injury.
4. Reduced employee absenteeism - by 6-32%
5. Improved employee relations and morale.
6. Increased productivity - 2-52%
Also, depending on the scope of your program, tax benefits may be available to you as the employer for offering the wellness programs.
So, that being said, you offer the wellness program, how do you get people to use it? There are a variety of promotional products that can serve as reminders, aids and incentives to participate in the program. Visit us at www.artina.com or give us a call at 800.433.5587.