3 Creative Ways to Market Your Holiday Gift Cards

As a business owner looking to raise your profits this holiday season, one of the best and most popular options is to offer holiday gift cards. 

That’s because customers love the ease and convenience of this choice. But how do you create a buzz about your gift cards?

1. Create a gift that also rewards the customer

Incentivize the purchase of your gift cards by offering something extra for the buyer.

Gift cards are always a hit with those who receive them. However, there is even more you can do to inspire your long-time customers to swipe their card through your smart terminal. Instead of just selling the card, give a little gift to the buyer as well.

Many restaurants offer this type of promotion. For instance, the person who purchases a $50 card could also receive a $5 one for themselves. 

And since Federal law mandates that your gift cards remain valid for customer use for at least five years, you can still drive traffic after the holidays conclude. 

2. Bundle the gift card

Pair the card with a small gift or service to make it irresistible.

Sometimes people are reluctant to purchase gift cards, believing that the recipient might view them as a cop-out. Negate this argument by pairing your gift card with a compatible product or service.

Since you are in the midst of the holiday shopping season, there are many potential compatible pairings. Offer a Christmas ornament, a scented candle, or a small accessory. If you are in the food and treats business, consider giving candy or complimentary coffee beans to go with your gift card. 

Spas or salons could dispense sample-sized hair products or hand cream. Any of these would add an extra something special to the card.

3. Cross-promote

If your store is in a community where similar, complementary businesses exist, consider a partnership.

Collaborating with a store or business that offers products that go well with yours is a great way to raise the perceived value of your gift card. By doing so, both you and they can expand your customer bases while strengthening your local community in the process.

For instance, attach the success of your coffee shop to that of a nearby bookstore. When someone buys one of your gift cards, include a discount coupon for the bookstore in the bag. 

Of course, your partnering business would return the favor. In the end, both of your stores win. Promote using joint signage, and don’t forget to post the details on both of your social media pages.

Gift cards are easy to generate and integrate into your point of sale system. What’s more, people love to give and receive them. Use these strategies to make them even more appealing, and they will be hugely successful this holiday season.