Gift cards have evolved from last-minute buys to valuable brand assets that drive revenue, loyalty, and customer acquisition. But in a saturated market, how can your gift card program stand out?
Let’s dive into the essentials of building a gift card program that grabs attention, resulting in your gift card flying off the shelf.
1. Design your gift card for impact 🖋️
In a sea of options, your gift card design matters more than you might think. Eye-catching, on-brand, and seasonally adaptable designs can significantly influence purchase decisions.
Think beyond traditional layouts -experiment with digital animations, eco-friendly materials, or personalised designs. Let your card reflect your brand’s unique personality, and if it’s a physical card, make sure your gift card packaging is something giftworthy.
2. Go omni-channel with your gift card program or go home 📲
Today’s customers expect to shop seamlessly across channels, and your gift card program should be no different.
Where possible, try to offer digital, physical, and mobile wallet options, ensuring your gift card is accessible at every customer touchpoint - online, in-app, and in-store. Omni-channel availability not only captures a broader audience but also elevates customer convenience, leading to increased sales and loyalty.
3. Add value beyond the card 💡
Make your gift card more than just a stored-value card by offering customers additional perks. Early access to sales, loyalty points, exclusive content, or even gamified rewards can incentivise gift card purchases and redemptions. Remember, it’s not just about loading money onto a card; it’s about creating an experience.
4. Tap into corporate gifting and B2B networks 🙌
The B2B gift card market is growing and companies are constantly on the lookout for appealing incentives for employees, clients, and partners. An attractive B2B gift card offering can place your brand in front of thousands of potential new customers - think corporate discounts, personalisation options, and volume discounts that appeal to HR and procurement teams alike.
Ensure your gift card program is easy to integrate and adaptable for bulk orders to appeal to businesses of all sizes and consider partnering with B2B distribution networks like Tillo to help get your gift card in front of these lucrative opportunities.
5. Partner with experts to maximise reach 🌎
Having an expert gift card partner, like Jigsaw, can unlock new opportunities for your brand. We’ll help you identify the best distribution networks, handle logistics, and optimise your program for both B2C and B2B markets. In a crowded market, an experienced partner can provide invaluable guidance and analytics, ensuring your gift card program not only reaches but resonates with the right audience.
6. Invest in marketing and promotions 📣
Your gift card program needs visibility to thrive. Cross-promote it in your newsletters, on social media, and even through influencer partnerships. Run seasonal campaigns that offer discounts on gift card purchases or highlight your program during peak gift-giving times. Promotions not only drive awareness but also encourage self-use, which has become a massive trend.
7. Make it easy for customers to gift 🎉
Gift-giving should be simple, delightful, and stress-free. Offer options for digital gift cards that can be sent instantly or scheduled for later, and provide creative packaging for physical cards. Make it easy for customers to personalise their gift with a message, or better yet, video messages! The smoother the gifting process, the higher the conversion rate.
The bottom line: stand out by adding value
Creating a successful gift card program in a crowded market is about standing out with convenience, flexibility, and a customer-centric approach. It’s not just about selling gift cards; it’s about offering a piece of your brand that people genuinely want to share and use.
Get in touch with us today to see what our team of experts could do for you.
