Gift cards have come a long way from being just a convenient last-minute gift. In 2025, they’re set to take centre stage in the retail, loyalty, and eCommerce worlds. So, what trends should brands and retailers watch out for to stay ahead?
Let’s dive into the key innovations shaping the future of gift cards 🚀
1. Digital-first experiences are here to stay 🌐
Gone are the days when gift cards were exclusively physical. In 2025, digital gift cards will dominate, thanks to their convenience and instant delivery. Shoppers are looking for seamless ways to send gifts, and with the rise of mobile wallets, QR codes, and one-click gifting options, brands that prioritise digital-first experiences will thrive.
🔮 What to watch:
- Growth in mobile wallet-compatible gift cards.
- Instant gifting via social media platforms.
- Eco-conscious shoppers opting for digital over plastic.
2. Hyper-personalisation is non-negotiable 👈
Personalisation has moved beyond simply adding a recipient’s name. In 2025, expect gift cards to align with customer preferences, purchase history, and even real-time events. Think curated gift cards for specific occasions, like a wellness retreat for stressed-out professionals or a tech bundle for gamers.
🎯 How to stand out:
- Offer customisable designs and messaging.
- Use AI to recommend gift cards tailored to customer preferences.
- Partner with niche brands to create unique experiences
3. Integration with loyalty programs 💎
Gift cards and loyalty programs are a match made in retail heaven. Customers redeeming points for gift cards or receiving them as rewards for their loyalty are trends gaining even more traction. In 2025, brands that integrate gift cards into their loyalty ecosystems will reap the rewards of higher engagement and retention.
📈 Pro tip:
- Make gift card redemptions simple within your loyalty app.
- Offer exclusive gift card bonuses to top-tier customers.
- Use gamification to incentivise loyalty with gift card rewards.
4. Gift cards as a budgeting tool
Self-use gift cards are on the rise, especially as consumers look to manage budgets and control spending. In 2025, brands will position gift cards as a tool for financial wellness, helping customers save and spend wisely. Platforms like Cheddar, Sprive, and Jamdoughnut are already showcasing how gift cards can be integrated into cashback programs, allowing consumers to earn a little back on their everyday shopping. This dual benefit of saving while spending is a trend that savvy shoppers—and brands—can’t ignore.
💸 Opportunities:
- Prepaid subscription gift cards for essential services.
- Promotions encouraging self-use gift cards with cashback rewards.
- Flexible redemption options to maximise savings.
5. Enhanced corporate gifting programs 🏢
Corporate gifting is evolving, and gift cards are the perfect solution for businesses looking to reward employees and partners. In 2025, brands that simplify the corporate gifting experience with bulk-buy options, branded cards, and tiered discounts will dominate this lucrative market.
👩💼 Business opportunity:
- Ensure you’re playing in the B2B market, whether that’s through gift card program managers or a platform like Tillo.
- Introduce corporate perks tied to gift card purchases, like free branding.
- Highlight sustainability with digital and eco-friendly gifting options.
Read our blog, Boost your Brand's Gift Card Potential: A Guide to Employee Rewards and Incentives for more information.
6. Sustainability takes the spotlight 🍃
Eco-conscious consumers are demanding more sustainable options, and gift cards are no exception. Digital cards are already reducing plastic waste, but 2025 will bring innovations like biodegradable physical cards and recycled packaging.
🌍 Go green with:
- Digital-first strategies.
- Biodegradable or reusable physical gift cards.
- Partnerships with sustainable brands to enhance eco-appeal.
7. The rise of omnichannel redemption 📱
Customers want flexibility when it comes to redeeming gift cards - whether in-store, online, or via mobile apps. By 2025, an omnichannel approach will be the gold standard, ensuring a consistent and frictionless experience across all touchpoints.
💡 Key actions:
- Ensure seamless integration between eCommerce and physical stores.
- Offer partial redemption options to maximise usability.
- Allow multi-card merging for all purchases.
It's time to invest in your gift card strategy
2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for the gift card industry. To stay competitive, brands must embrace innovation, prioritise digital-first solutions, and focus on creating seamless, personalised experiences. Whether it’s integrating gift cards into loyalty programs, enhancing sustainability, or tapping into the corporate market, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make your mark.
Need help navigating this dynamic landscape? We specialise in creating cutting-edge gift card programs that drive loyalty, revenue, and customer satisfaction. Let’s work together to craft a program that’s ready for 2025 - and beyond. 🌟
Get in touch today to future-proof your gift card program! 📧
