I agree with you. There is a lot to be said for creating and maintaining a pleasant culture where folks say 'please' and 'thank you' and show respect. Rather than rely on short term feel goods. Recognition still comes up at or near the top of motivation surveys. One technique to help create and maintain this type of culture is called "I like ___ because....". End each staff meeting going around the room, with each staff member singling out a colleague for praise- e.g. 'I like Joe cause he always has a can do attitude', 'I like Jane because she is so good with irate customers', or 'I thank Mary for staying late yesterday to help me out'. It gets people into the regular habit of praising and being positive. It will likely be a little awkward at first, but stick with it and you will see good results.