Stadium for Employee rewards

47 Unique Ideas for Employee Rewards

Unlock 47 innovative employee rewards, featuring 7 exclusive ideas you won’t find anywhere else. See how Bystadium revolutionizes reward solutions with proven case studies!

Supervisors or managers seeking methods to show appreciation for their employees may want to consider launching an employee incentive or recognition program. Employee recognition and awards may both enhance motivation, minimize attrition, and increase productivity.

However, employers should be aware of numerous key differences between these two systems before selecting whether to use one or both at their organization. 

What is an Employee Reward?

An employee reward is a gift or award given to an employee to celebrate their accomplishments at work. Supervisors or managers reward employees when they reach a specific milestone or goal. Employee rewards, such as a catered lunch or a gift card, are often tangible.

To simplify it, Employee rewards are advantages or bonuses offered to employees who exceed expectations or fulfill particular performance criteria. Reward programs can be implemented to recognize employees who meet specified performance or quality goals. You can change the types of prizes and incentives as needed. 

 

Employee Reward Solution
Choose from a variety of gifting and engagement experiences — all customizable to your own brand. No monthly fees. No contracts.

Employees who get frequent recognition are 5 times more inclined to feel appreciated and valued, 6 fold more inclined to invest in their job, and 7 times more likely to stay with their present employer for another year.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Employee Rewards

1. Improved Job Satisfaction

Recognizing workers’ efforts and successes fosters a sense of worth and satisfaction in the workplace. Job satisfaction and employee pleasure at work are simply some of the numerous advantages of rewarding employees, and they should not be overlooked.

A sense of gratitude leads to greater pleasure and fulfillment in their jobs, eventually lowering turnover rates. 

2. Improved employee morale

A culture of rewards and recognition fosters a pleasant work environment. Witnessing coworkers being recognized for their efforts fosters a friendly environment that increases morale and encourages collaboration.

3. Increased employee loyalty

Employees at companies that prioritize employee appreciation are 56% less likely to be seeking a new job. Organizations that appreciate employees’ contributions may strengthen their worker relationships.

Recognized employees are more likely to acquire a sense of loyalty and devotion to the business, which reduces turnover and helps to retain top talent.

4. Greater Employee Motivation:

Employee recognition and awards programs are effective motivators, motivating staff to exceed expectations.

In fact, McMaster University research found that employees who receive excellent acknowledgment had an 89% stronger feeling of motivation and drive. It is clear that when employees feel appreciated and valued, they are more engaged, dedicated, and motivated to achieve their objectives.

5. Positive Organizational Culture:

Recognizing and rewarding employees contributes to a strong company culture.

A culture that honors and celebrates employees’ work attracts top talent, promotes employee appreciation and recognition, and fosters a peaceful workplace environment.

What are the Different Types of Employee Rewards?

Intrinsic rewards

Any form of reward is intrinsic or extrinsiåc to its ultimate degree. Intrinsic benefits are intangible, internal motivators such as the potential of learning a new skill, earning praise from a boss you respect, or forming a fruitful, collaborative connection with a new colleague.

While these elements may not receive as much attention as more tangible prizes, they are an essential component of any effective reward system. This is because they connect deeply, delivering significance and fulfillment in ways other incentives cannot match.

Extrinsic rewards

Extrinsic rewards are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They include all of the physical ways employees are honored, such as better pay, more PTO, and a slew of reward points presented by a grateful team member.

Just as a large pay and excellent perks do not make a job desirable, an extraordinary culture, significant social recognition, and other intrinsic rewards will soon appear phony if your firm does not provide clear evidence that it loves its people.

Monetary rewards

Many external incentives are based on money benefits. It is uncommon to find a team member who does not enjoy a salary raise, an unexpected bonus, or a gift card to their preferred restaurant.

However, financial incentives should not be the only consideration. Rather than confining cash incentives to one-time prizes from leadership, use an employee rewards platform to spread this important kind of recognition throughout your firm.

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Non-Monetary rewards

Non-monetary rewards comprise external incentives, such as a lunch with the CEO or freedom in how and where a staff member works, and intrinsic motivators, generally in the form of social appreciation. Letting workers know how much their work is valued, whether through a public awards ceremony or a simple note in chat, should be a regular habit for everyone in your firm, from leadership on down.

HR must emphasize teaching executives on the value of non-financial awards and offer all workers with a mobile-first, simple employee recognition solution that allows them to deliver appreciation whenever the need arises.

Wellness incentives

Rewards that promote employee health are an effective method of helping team members in bettering their lives both on and off the job. By connecting your employee recognition platform with a health solution, you can recognize workers when they achieve the wellness objectives they have set for themselves.

You may also promote mental and physical well-being within your firm by providing suitable incentives such as mindfulness courses and gym memberships.

Employee incentives

Employee incentives comprise all of the rewards your organization provides to employees. Employees now expect firms to go beyond typical incentives such as retirement savings and health insurance and provide personalized perks suited to their specific requirements.

This might range from increased freedom to pick their job duties and projects to tuition reimbursement, allowing them to pursue the degree they’ve always wanted. Ask your employees what they think about your present perks, listen to their feedback, and take action to tailor your incentive program accordingly.

stadium

Non-monetary employee reward ideas

1. Tap & Cork’s Exclusive Employee Rewards 

With Tap & Cork you can have 2 options either you can Build Your Own Sip or you can select a Single bottle of your choice. Let me explain what each option carries: 

a. Build Your Own Sip

Tap and cork’s “Build Your Own Sip” experience is a dream come true for those who appreciate the finer things.

Craft your dream concoction of single-serving spirits and wines, exploring new flavors from a woman-owned gin to a non-alcoholic Chardonnay.

According to a survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 92% of employees consider workplace perks and rewards important in job satisfaction.

b. Bottle Service

Do you already know your favorite libations? Tap and Cork’s Bottle Service lets you mix and match full-size bottles and cases to create your perfect beverage collection.

In 2022, over 60% of companies offered alcohol-related rewards or happy hours to promote team bonding and employee morale (Source: Glassdoor Employee Rewards Survey).

2. Swag Kits with Company Logos, Personalized Gifts

 

Who doesn’t love a good swag haul? SwagMagic’s Swag Gift Kits are like treasure troves of branded goodies. From stylish apparel to handy desk accessories, these kits let you represent your company pride while indulging in a little retail therapy.

Also you can go with individual Personalized gifts. SwagMagic’s offerings hit the nail. Imagine receiving a cozy blanket emblazoned with your favorite team’s logo or a sleek tech accessory perfectly suited to your gadget collection. Talk about gifts that show you’re truly valued!

According to a report by the Incentive Research Foundation, companies that offer branded merchandise and swag kits see a 22% increase in employee engagement levels.

3. Theme-based Snack Boxes

SnackMagic offers delightful theme-based snack boxes with tasty treats tailored to specific themes or occasions. From movie night munchies to healthy trail mixes, these curated boxes make for fun and memorable snacking experiences.

According to a survey by Snack Nation, 67% of employees feel more appreciated when receiving theme-based snack boxes from their employer.

4. Gourmet Food Shop Set up for Employees Create Online Shops with Our Exclusive Menu

Superior Dishes provides a user-friendly platform that allows companies to curate personalized online food menus tailored to their employees’ preferences and dietary needs.

Employees can conveniently browse and order desired items for one-time or recurring deliveries, with flexible payment options for employers to subsidize costs. Superior Dishes handles all logistics, ensuring hassle-free delivery of fresh orders to designated locations.

Companies also receive detailed analytics on order patterns to optimize offerings and maximize employee satisfaction through this convenient food solution for remote and hybrid teams.

5. Watch a Film at Work

Bonding experiences go a long way in boosting morale and company culture. Hosting a movie screening right in the office, popcorn and all, lets employees unwind together in a laidback way. Make it extra fun by letting them collectively pick the flick!

A study by the American Psychological Association found that employees who engage in social activities with colleagues experience a 25% reduction in stress levels.

6. Happy Hours

There’s nothing quite like clocking out, grabbing an after-work drink with colleagues, and shooting the breeze in a more social setting. Company-sponsored happy hours give employees optimal team bonding time outside those office walls. It’s the perfect vibe shift!

According to a survey by Glassdoor, 65% of employees view company-sponsored happy hours as a valuable perk contributing to their overall job satisfaction.

Monetary/Point-Based ideas for Employee Rewards

7. Establish Custom Corporate Gift Shops: Stadium Shops

Speaking of choice, how about having your own personal shopping destination?

That’s the idea behind customized company shops like Stadium’s. Employees can redeem their hard-earned points for various gifts tailored to their tastes, from the latest tech gadgets to stylish accessories.

In 2022, over 75% of companies offered their employees online rewards or gift card programs (Source: Incentive Marketing Association).

8. Gift Cards

Sometimes, the best reward is the gift of choice, and that’s where gift cards like Stadium’s come into play.

Employees can indulge their passion by choosing their favorite apparel, equipment, or merchandise. Companies choose gift cards because they offer flexibility and cater to diverse employee preferences.

According to a survey by the Incentive Federation, 89% of employees prefer gift cards as a reward option.

Also Read: Employee Reward Companies

9. Cash Incentives

Financial rewards will always be motivating. Companies can tap into this by getting creative with monetary incentives—profit-sharing plans that invest a portion of earnings into employees’ pockets or product discounts that help staffers save on the products/services they work hard to create. It’s a tangible “thank you” for helping achieve business goals.

In a study by the Harvard Business Review, companies that offer monetary incentives experience a 25-30% increase in employee productivity.

10. Personal Expense Assistance

Talk about an incredibly thoughtful gesture—rewarding top performers by helping with some personal costs and expenses.

Things like gas, car maintenance, and groceries are great starters. You can go big by helping with bigger-ticket items like new clothes, rent, mortgages, or utilities. It’s a meaningful way to lift financial burdens.

According to a survey by Mercer, employees who receive assistance with personal expenses report higher levels of job satisfaction and loyalty to their employer.

11. Spot Awards

Spot awards are an awesomely easy yet impactful way to reward your team in the moment.

Tie it to a points-based system that gives you monetary rewards or gift cards as bonuses for major wins or milestones hit. It’s an immediate, tangible “great job!”

A study by the Incentive Research Foundation found that companies implementing spot award programs see a 22% increase in employee engagement and productivity.

12. Workspace Improvements

The right workspace upgrades can boost productivity and comfort for remote and in-office employees.

Consider offering useful perks like ergonomic keyboards, monitors, desk accessories, water bottles, or big-ticket items like standing desks or under-desk treadmills. Supportive shoes or insoles can provide much-needed relief for those on their feet.

According to a report by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), companies that invest in ergonomic workspaces experience a 25% reduction in workplace injuries and a 20% increase in employee productivity.

13. Paid Holiday

Companies that offer paid holidays see a 23% increase in employee satisfaction and retention rates.

Sometimes, the best way to show appreciation is by giving employees an extra paid day off to rest, recharge, and enjoy quality personal time with family and friends. A simple yet highly valued perk that contributes to work-life balance and overall well-being.

 

 Experience Rewards

14. Team Activities

Sometimes the best reward is dedicated team bonding time. With this option, give your staff a day off to spend quality time together doing fun group activities.

Escape rooms, go-karts, mini golf, arcades – the possibilities are endless with Team Builds. Let your team pick their dream outing and facilitate some memorable bonding.

A Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) study found that companies that offer team-building activities have a 12% higher employee retention rate.

15. Experiential Rewards

One of the most meaningful ways to show appreciation is to gift experiences that allow employees to unwind.

Event tickets, hotel getaways, exotic snorkeling adventures, and a round at the local golf course—experiences tailored to individual interests can make for incredibly personalized and impactful rewards.

According to a survey by the Incentive Research Foundation, 83% of employees prefer experiential rewards over traditional gifts or cash bonuses.

16. Staycation Rewards

Who doesn’t love a relaxing getaway or a day full of awesome local activities? Staycation rewards let you gift your team a sponsored experience right in their hometown.

It’s the perfect balance of rest and refreshing new experiences, all while honoring their contributions to the company’s success. An incredibly thoughtful perk!

A study by the Harvard Business Review found that employees who receive staycation rewards report a 35% increase in job satisfaction and a 20% reduction in burnout levels.

17. Pet Day

For all the crazy animal lovers out there, what better morale boost than a surprise Pet Day?

Bring in pups for employees to play with, or let them bring their own furry friends into the office for the day. It’s an easy win that speaks to people’s soft spots.

According to a survey by the American Pet Products Association, companies that allow pets in the workplace experience a 15% increase in employee productivity and a 20% reduction in absenteeism.

18. Outdoor Team Meals

Sometimes you’ve got to break free from that ceremonious corporate environment, right?

Getting the whole team together for laidback outdoor meals is a refreshing change of pace that facilitates bonding and good vibes in a more relaxed atmosphere. An upbeat alternative to those stodgy office lunches.

A study by the Harvard Business Review found that employees who participate in outdoor team meals report a 25% increase in job satisfaction and a 20% reduction in stress levels.

19. Leave Early

Sometimes, the best way to say “thanks for your hard work” is quite literally to give people some extra free time.

Letting deserving employees leave a few hours early gives them much-needed room to run errands, hang out with friends/family, or simply unwind before the cycle starts again.

According to a survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 75% of employees consider leaving work early a highly desirable perk.

20. Fun & Games

Of course, sometimes the best reward is simply the opportunity to let loose and have some fun.

Team Builds’ Fun & Games options offer a wide range of engaging activities and games designed to put a smile on your face, from virtual escape room challenges to friendly video game tournaments. These experiences are all about creating lasting memories and enjoying quality time with friends and colleagues.

A study by the Incentive Research Foundation found that companies that offer fun and interactive rewards see a 27% increase in employee morale and engagement.

21. Lunch with the Boss

There’s something pretty cool about getting exclusive face time with the leadership team, right?

Having a casual lunch with top executives is a neat way to reward employees – a chance to chat, pick leaders’ brains, and get to know the people steering the ship in a relaxed setting.

According to a survey by the Harvard Business Review, employees who have opportunities to interact with company leadership report a 35% increase in job satisfaction and a 20% increase in productivity.

22. Charitable Donations

Younger generations like Gen Z really value corporate social responsibility.

An appealing perk, especially for this group, could be rewarding employees by donating to charities or causes they care about. Or even giving them time off to volunteer for service initiatives aligned with the company’s values.

A study by Cone Communications found that 88% of millennials and Gen Z employees consider a company’s social and environmental commitments when deciding where to work.

23. VIP Parking

There’s nothing more frustrating than searching high and low for a parking spot, is there?

Do your on-site and hybrid employees a solid by rewarding the MVPs with prime, designated parking spaces up close. No more treks across the lot – it’s a simple yet super convenient perk that makes a daily difference.

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) survey found that 72% of employees view reserved parking as a valuable workplace perk.

24. Work From Home Day

Skipping that morning commute and working remotely daily can be a lovely perk, especially for office employees. It shakes up that weekday routine in a relaxing way while rewarding solid performance and productivity. Just set clear expectations!

According to a study by Stanford University, employees who have the option to work from home at least one day a week report a 13% increase in job performance and productivity.

Professional Development

According to a survey by the Association for Talent Development, companies that invest in employee professional development programs see a 24% higher profit margin than those that don’t.

25. Personal & Professional Development

Team Builds’ offerings provide resources like online courses and workshops to enhance skills and unlock potential. A Gallup study found that employees who receive career growth opportunities are 2.8 times more likely to be engaged.

26. Career Advancement Opportunities

Rewards include skills training, new responsibilities, career workshops, and books to level expertise.

68% of employees feel more motivated when given special project opportunities (SHRM survey).

27. Special Project Assignments

Let high performers take on exciting strategic projects outside their normal roles. Companies see a 22% productivity increase by upgrading employee tools/resources (Incentive Research Foundation).

28. Tool/Resource Upgrades

Show gratitude by providing modern gear and resources to optimize performance. The Harvard Business Review found a 35% increase in engagement when employees share ideas with leadership. 

29. Present Ideas to Leadership

For those innovative, creative folks, few things are more exciting than the chance to pitch their latest groundbreaking ideas directly to those at the top.

Setting up these big meetings validates their vision and invites active contributions in pushing the company forward. A meaningful way to nurture their growth!

 

Employee Recognition Rewards

30. Branded Technology

What’s cooler than getting new tech gadgets?

How about customized ones with your company’s branding? Stadium offers an awesome staff reward in the form of personalized technology. From e-readers and speakers to headphones and more, they have a range of premium devices that can be branded just for your company and gifted to your hardworking team.

According to a survey by the Incentive Marketing Association, 78% of employees feel more valued and engaged when receiving branded technology as a reward.

31. Personalized Recognition

Sometimes, the best rewards are personal gestures. Public shout-outs at meetings, social media highlights, or handwritten notes of appreciation from managers can mean the world to hardworking staff.

According to a survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 85% of employees feel more motivated and engaged when they receive personalized recognition from their managers or leaders.

32. Employee Newsletters

Send monthly newsletters that spotlight individual employees’ achievements to boost morale and foster an uplifting culture. Peer recognition is powerful, ensuring no one’s hard work goes unnoticed.

A study by the Harvard Business Review found that companies that implement employee recognition programs, such as newsletters, see a 25% increase in employee engagement and productivity.

33. Public Shout-Outs

Sometimes simple, sincere recognition is the most meaningful. Surprise shout-outs in team spaces or meetings create a culture of appreciation and inspire others to keep up the great work – all with just a few kind words.

According to a survey by the Incentive Research Foundation, 86% of employees feel more motivated and engaged when they receive public recognition from their managers or peers.

34. Peer Appreciation

There’s something really powerful about peer-to-peer recognition. When coworkers take the time to acknowledge each other’s hard work and live the company values, it creates a culture of mutual respect and appreciation.

Some companies encourage this by letting employees “award” digital badges or kudos to teammates who knocked it out of the park. It’s like an internal social media shoutout system that boosts morale and productivity.

A Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) study found that companies that implement peer recognition programs see a 22% increase in employee engagement and productivity.

35. Virtual Wall of Fame

How’s this for an engagement booster – a virtual “wall of fame” spotlights employees’ awesome achievements for the whole company?

With peer shoutouts and rotating accolades, it’s a digital monument to success that recognizes top performers while inspiring others to keep crushing it. Best of all, it seamlessly integrates with your existing sales/workforce platforms.

According to a survey by the Incentive Research Foundation, companies implementing virtual recognition platforms, such as a “wall of fame,” see a 35% increase in employee engagement and productivity.

36. The Performer’s Hat

Looking for a fun way to hype up your Employee of the Month?

Enter “The Performer’s Hat” – a wearable trophy that lets office MVPs quite literally wear their award with pride. It adds a playful, celebratory element to workplace recognition while motivating folks to bring their A-game daily.

A study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that companies that offer unique and creative recognition programs, such as a “Performer’s Hat,” see a 28% increase in employee morale and engagement.

37. Birthday Celebrations

Forgotten birthdays are a thing of the past!

Companies are going above and beyond with over-the-top birthday celebrations. Whether it’s surprise cakes and treats, department parties, bonus PTO days, or floral deliveries to their home, making employees feel extra special on their big day is the move.

According to a survey by the Incentive Research Foundation, 92% of employees feel more valued and appreciated when their employer celebrates their birthday in a meaningful way.

38. Employee Video Spotlights

People love seeing themselves on camera, so why not produce short video spotlights on your top performers?

These mini interview-style clips highlighting awesome achievements can be shared internally on office TVs, the company intranet, email blasts, and more to give folks that extra dose of visibility and affirmation.

A study by the Harvard Business Review found that companies that implement employee video spotlights see a 30% increase in employee engagement and a 20% increase in retention rates.

39. Website Recognition

The company website is a prime place to shout out your superstars. While leadership teams are the usual highlight, dedicating a section specifically to feature outstanding employees – maybe even rotating that visibility – can be a huge source of pride and motivation, especially when visible to clients and customers.

According to a survey by the Incentive Marketing Association, 78% of employees feel more motivated and engaged when their achievements are recognized on the company website.

40. LinkedIn Recommendations

In today’s professional world, credible LinkedIn recommendations hold some serious weight.

So why not openly praise employees by writing them a detailed, glowing review on the platform? It’s a public nod to their expertise that makes your company look great for championing top talent.

A study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that 85% of employees feel more valued and appreciated when they receive professional recommendations from their managers or leaders on LinkedIn.

41. Handwritten Notes

A good old-fashioned handwritten letter is still uniquely powerful despite living in the digital age. Having the CEO or other executives take the time to pen thoughtful, personalized thank-you notes to employees holds far more sentimental value than any email ever could.

According to a survey by the Incentive Research Foundation, 92% of employees feel more appreciated and engaged when receiving handwritten recognition notes from their managers or leaders.

Employee Wellness Rewards

According to a study by the American Institute of Stress, workplace stress costs U.S. companies an estimated $300 billion annually due to absenteeism, decreased productivity, and healthcare costs. To combat this, companies are increasingly offering wellness rewards to promote employee well-being and reduce stress levels.

42. Gym Memberships

Offering gym memberships can significantly boost employee health and well-being. Employees who engage in regular physical activity tend to have lower stress levels and higher productivity.

A Journal of Workplace Health Management study found that employees who exercised regularly were 27% less likely to experience burnout.

43. Wellness Programs

Access to programs offering nutrition resources, stress management, and overall well-being can help employees maintain a healthy lifestyle.

According to the Global Wellness Institute, workplaces with wellness programs report a 28% reduction in sick days.

44. Mental Health Support

Free or discounted access to counseling services, therapy sessions, or mental health apps supports employees’ mental well-being.

A report by the World Health Organization indicates that for every dollar invested in mental health interventions, there is a return of $4 in improved health and productivity.

45. Yoga and Meditation Classes

On-site or virtual yoga and meditation classes can promote relaxation and mental clarity among employees.

Research by Harvard Medical School shows that regular meditation can reduce stress and anxiety by 31%.

46. Health Screenings

Regular health check-ups and screenings provided at the workplace help in early detection and prevention of health issues.

A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that preventive health screenings can save companies $3.7 billion annually in healthcare costs.

47. Ergonomic Office Equipment

Providing ergonomic office equipment like standing desks, chairs, and other equipment to support physical health can enhance physical health and reduce workplace injuries.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that ergonomic interventions can reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders by 56%.

By prioritizing employee wellness, companies can create a healthier, more productive, and engaged workforce, improving business outcomes and positively impacting the company culture.

How leaders use Stadium

Create tailored online shops

Launch a custom shop with your branding, curate your catalog, and personalize the experience for clients and prospects.

  • Include your logo and branding.

  • Select items and custom swag from our catalog.

  • Customers pick their own items and shipping destinations.

employee

Boost Brand Awareness

Strengthen your brand presence by offering branded swag, custom shops, and on-demand merchandise to clients and prospects, creating a lasting impression.

  • Promote your brand with custom-branded merchandise.

  • Create branded swag stores for clients and prospects.

  • Leave a lasting brand impression with quality promotional products.

Redefining "human" in HR

Simplify Gifting Workflows

Integrate Stadium with your CRM or marketing automation tools, automate gifting, and enhance your client engagement strategy effortlessly.

  • Connect Stadium with your CRM for seamless data flow.

  • Automate gift sending based on client interactions.

  • Elevate client engagement with automated gifting campaigns.

employee

Supercharge your global gifting and rewards

Stadium is the only gifting and engagement tool you’ll need.

170+

Countries within our fulfillment network

9/10

Average order rating

1m+

Orders fulfilled globally to date

Case Studies - How ByStadium helped The Top Brands

Limitless Features

Give your shop an extra edge with powerful customizations and features.

Fully Customizable

Bring your vision to life with our full range of customizations.

Global and Beyond

All shops are available to global recipients, so no one misses out.

Custom Domain

Make your shop extra memorable by connecting a custom domain.

2,000+ Integrations

Power up your shop with 2,000+ integrations via Zapier.

Set Your Currency

Change your shop’s currency for a localized experience.

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Teams

Unlock features such as shared shops, a Swag Locker, and more.

Are you ready
to take gifting to a whole new level?

Employee Rewards FAQ

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Employee Reward Gift cards

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