Chapter 399: Raffle

"I will definitely inform everyone about it once the plan is finalized." Gray’s answer seemed to satisfy everyone at the table.

After getting satisfied, the discussion gradually changed to lighter topics after that. Some talked about the current market trends, while others spoke about upcoming product launches that they have.

And of course there’s also people who just enjoyed the food and atmosphere around.

As the dinner goes on, the rest of the venue became livelier. Employees from both branches were now eating, laughing, and taking photos together. Some were already exchanging social media accounts while others were comparing stories from their respective stores.

Eventually, after most people had finished eating, the lights dimmed slightly once more so they could continue the program.

The giant screen lit up and the host immediately walked back onto the stage.

"I hope you had a good dinner, everyone!" The host’s voice echoed throughout the venue as the lights focused on the stage once more.

A few employees immediately laughed at it.

"Unfortunately, we’re not done yet." The host smiled widely.

Several people jokingly groaned while others laughed.

"Don’t worry." The host raised both hands. "This won’t take that long."

The giant screen behind him changed once again. This time, the words that appeared were much simpler.

[Years of Service Recognition]

The atmosphere immediately became quiet when the staff realized that this was for them.

"This segment is dedicated to recognizing the employees who have spent their time, effort, and loyalty helping this company grow."

The first names appeared on the screen.

[1 Year Service Award]

One by one, employees who had completed their first year with the company were invited to the stage.

The crowd applauded warmly as they received certificates, commemorative plaques, and gift packages. The people looked happy and proud at it. Photos were taken before they returned to their seats.

Soon after came the next group.

[2 Year Service Award]

Just like the first group, the employees who received this award looked proud as they walked onto the stage. Many of them had already become familiar faces within the company. They accepted their certificates, plaques, and gift packages while their coworkers cheered for them enthusiastically.

[3 Year Service Award]

This time, the cheers became even louder.

There were fewer names compared to the earlier categories, but many employees immediately recognized them.

These were people who had stayed through some of the company’s busiest periods and biggest challenges.

Soon, the next category appeared.

[4 Year Service Award]

The crowd immediately erupted into applause.

Only a handful of employees qualified for this recognition. Many of them were among the earliest members of the company. Several coworkers stood up to cheer as they walked toward the stage.

And finally after it was the last category.

[5 Year Service Award]

Only a very small number of names appeared on the screen. The moment they did, the entire venue stood up almost instinctively. The applause right now was also louder than any previous category.

Several of the recipients looked genuinely emotional as they made their way to the stage.

Unlike the earlier awards, these employees were presented with larger commemorative plaques, special gift packages, and additional recognition from the company.

"These individuals have been with us through countless challenges, store openings, busy seasons, and milestones." The host smiled as he looked at them.

"They helped shape the company into what it is today."

The applause continued for several more seconds after the host announced that. Even Gray stood and applauded alongside everyone else.

After the awards were handed over, the recipients gathered for a final photograph. The giant screen displayed the image live as the crowd continued cheering.

Once the photos were finished, the host stepped forward once more.

"Let’s give all of our service award recipients one final round of applause."

Clap!

Clap!

Clap!

The venue responded immediately at it. From first-year employees to five-year veterans, everyone received recognition tonight. And for many of them, that recognition meant just as much as any prize.

"Now then..." The host waited for the applause to settle before smiling mischievously.

Several employees immediately sat up when they heard the host’s tone changing. The giant screen behind him suddenly changed and in there, large golden letters appeared.

[RAFFLE DRAW]

The entire venue exploded with excitement.

"WOOOOOO!"

"Finally!"

"This is what I’ve been waiting for!"

"I knew we weren’t done yet!"

The host laughed as he watched the sudden surge of energy throughout the ballroom.

"See? This is the loudest you’ve all been tonight."

The employees didn’t even bother denying it.

The giant screen behind him changed once again.

[Raffle Prize #1 - Gift Certificates]

The first few prizes were relatively simple, but that didn’t stop the excitement. The host reached into a large transparent raffle drum positioned beside the stage.

"Let’s see our first winner."

The entire venue leaned forward in anticipation at that. The host pulled out a name before letting out a playful grin.

"Our first winner is..." He announced the name and a loud scream immediately came from one of the tables.

"I WON!" The employee jumped from his seat while his coworkers erupted into cheers. The crowd applauded as he hurried toward the stage to claim his prize.

The raffle continued and more names were drawn. They gave gift certificates, restaurant vouchers, shopping vouchers, and even small appliances.

Every winner was greeted with cheers from their tables.

"I’ve never won anything before!"

"Well, you have now."

Soon, the prizes started becoming bigger. They moved now to gadgets and the crowd immediately became more competitive. Those who won earlier regret it, but it’s still better than nothing.

The prizes ranged from smart tvs, phone, and even a gaming console. Several younger employees nearly lost their minds.

"No way."

"I need that."

"Please let it be me."

The host continued drawing names while enjoying everyone’s reactions. Meanwhile, Gray sat quietly at his table, watching the employees enjoy themselves. For him, this was the best part of the evening.

Eventually, the host raised both hands.

"Now then..."

[GRAND PRIZE]

The room instantly became silent and the host smiled.

"This year’s grand prize was sponsored jointly by the company and several of our amazing partners."

"Yes."

"This year’s grand prize winner will receive a brand-new motorcycle. That is another price on top of the $5000 that Mr. Gray personally gave."