Secret Santa demonstrates just how cost cutting in the elves' workshop has damaged craft skills in the festive greeting cards studio.

Each year, at our Christmas party, wieden + kennedy has a 'secret santa' thing, where everyone buys a present for another staffer, whose name is selected at random out of a hat. The idea is to give them something amusing or appropriate. Rob Steiner and I (Neil) acted as Santas and dished out the gifts this year. And of course, I also received my own secret Santa gift, which I have to admit was funny and deserved. I got a letter which read as follows:

Dear Neil,

First of all let me take this opportunity to wish you a very merry Christmas. I would also like to thank you for your cheer, good will and general merriment this year. It hasn't gone unnoticed.

But as you know, it's been a very tough year for the global economy. The world is in dire straits and it's no different in Lapland.

So, like Wieden + Kennedy, I have unfortunately had to tighten my -rather large – belt. Therefore it's with regret I say there is a Secret Santa 'gift freeze' on this year. I hope you understand and continue with your good behaviour throughout 2010, so that hopefully next year is more prosperous.

Merry Christmas.

Secret Santa.