Why gift cards are becoming increasingly popular
Gift cards are no longer a “nice to have” present; they are a gifting staple.
Whether for birthdays, holidays or other special occasions, they provide the ability and choice to get what you want, when you want. Unsurprisingly, gift cards are becoming increasingly popular as people orient their fast-paced, digital-first lives.
Flexibility is Key
One key reason why gift cards are now a hot commodity is the flexibility they offer. Instead of having to decide on someone’s size, colour preference or taste, a gift card gives the receiver the freedom to get exactly what they would choose in the first place.
The Shift Toward Digital
In today's digital world, we are constantly looking for ways to make life simpler. Digital gift cards provide probably the easiest way you can gift, as you don’t even have to leave your home. You can give a gift card online in a few clicks and seconds — no need for wrapping paper or even a journey to the store. In some cases, digital cards are delivered almost immediately, so they're ideal for those last-minute gifts everyone has to buy on occasion.
This newfound ease is particularly attractive for the younger age demographic. Millennials and Gen Zs are more likely to shop online than in-store, resulting in a rising tendency for gift card giving. Plus, cards can be easily stored on a person’s smartphone, eliminating the potential to lose or forget their card.
Personalisation for the Win
Although a gift card may seem like a basic “one-size-fits-all” gift, there is plenty of room for a personal touch. You can choose a branded gift card from a store that is an obvious match to the receiver’s interests. That little bit of extra thought makes the gift feel more personalised and relevant to the person it is being gifted to.
Lots of stores have gone a step further in allowing us to customise with personalised messages and a huge selection of designs.
Budget-Friendly and Easy to Control
One more explanation for the increase in gift card use is their help for the gift giver and the recipient to budget. As a giver, you place a designated amount on the card so you can avoid overspending. The recipient can get something they need or want within the budget.
The Rise of Loyalty Programs
Many brands have incorporated their gift cards with their loyalty programs as a strategy to build stronger relationships with customers. When an individual uses a gift card at a store for a brand, they may get points or an additional reward that they can later use.
The gift cards — which include loyalty points — build off of an already growing trend of returning customers. Now, there are even more reasons for customers to pick them over traditional gifts. Extra discounts, limited-time deals or special access to events are a plus.
The Perfect Corporate Gift
Gift cards are also making their way into the business world. Many companies use them as an incentive or reward if an employee accomplishes a goal. It’s a simple way for companies to reward hard work without putting in the effort to pick the gift.
Convenience for the Giver
Most gift-givers have found themselves in a time crunch, looking for a gift and trying to find the perfect one for the recipient. That can be tricky during the hectic season. A gift card saves time and energy.
The best part? You can order one online and have it delivered straight to their phone or email. There’s no time wasted shopping. Essentially, it is the perfect gift that will immediately elevate you to “Best Gift Giver in the World” status!
