The Rise of Online Gift Cards: A Modern Gifting Solution

The Convenience of Online Gift Cards

Choosing the perfect gift can be challenging, particularly when the recipient hasn’t provided any hints. Online gift cards offer a smart solution to this dilemma. These cards function similarly to gift certificates but resemble credit cards, complete with a magnetic strip on the back. This strip records the amount paid for the card, which is also the amount the recipient can spend.

Types of Businesses Offering Gift Cards

Today, a wide variety of businesses issue gift cards, including:

• Beauty shops and spas
• Department stores
• Restaurants
• Electronic stores

These cards can typically be used at the store where they were purchased or any of its outlets if it’s a chain retailer.

The Financial Advantage of Discounted Gift Cards

One of the significant benefits of online gift cards is the potential for discounts. Several websites offer these cards at reduced prices, often because they have been traded in by consumers who couldn’t use them or left their balances unused. For example, ABC Gift Cards offers a $100 Ashley Stewart Gift Card for just $88, and an 8% discount on Abercrombie cards.

Tips for Finding Discounted Gift Cards

To make the most of these offers, consider the following tips:

1. Visit Big Stores: Check out major retailers either in person or online. They often sell discounted gift cards for various categories, from restaurants to electronics.
2. Online Auctions: Platforms like eBay allow you to bid on gift cards, potentially securing them at lower prices.
3. Reward Points: Use reward points or miles to get gift cards for free.
4. Sales and Promotions: Look for sales at stores that offer gift cards, as they may provide additional discounts.

The Impact of Online Gift Cards

Online gift cards are not just a convenient option; they also offer significant value to both the giver and the recipient. They allow the recipient to purchase something they truly need or desire, providing a level of personalization that traditional gifts often lack.

Interesting Statistics

• Market Growth: The global gift card market was valued at $619.25 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $1,922.87 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 15.4% from 2020 to 2027 (Allied Market Research).
• Consumer Preference: According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, 59% of consumers prefer receiving gift cards over other types of gifts (NRF).
• Unused Balances: Approximately $3 billion worth of gift cards go unused each year in the United States (MarketWatch).

Conclusion

Purchasing an online gift card is a generous and thoughtful way to make someone’s day. It provides the recipient with the freedom to choose something they genuinely want or need, making it one of the most valuable gifts you can give. With the added benefit of potential discounts, online gift cards are a practical and appreciated choice for any occasion.

By leveraging the convenience and flexibility of online gift cards, you can ensure that your gift is both meaningful and appreciated, all while potentially saving money in the process.