15 Latest Gift Card Marketing Strategies to Boost Your Growth in 2023

As we move into 2023, gift card marketing strategies are becoming increasingly essential to any successful marketing plan. Gift cards have proven to be a lucrative and effective tool for boosting sales and driving customer loyalty.

We intend to present you with a comprehensive guide to the latest gift card marketing strategies currently being used by successful businesses.

Whether you have an established firm or are just getting started, You can expect a clear understanding of the latest gift card marketing strategies and how to implement them into your marketing plan effectively to provide insights and actionable tips to help you maximize the potential of gift cards to grow your business.

You will also have gained valuable insights into how gift card marketing can help you increase sales, build customer loyalty, and improve your bottom line.

1. Emphasizing personalization

Personalization is critical in gift card marketing, allowing businesses to stand out from the competition and separate themselves from others. Customers who receive personalized gift cards feel valued and appreciated, leading to increased loyalty and brand advocacy.

Additionally, customized gift cards can create an emotional connection with the recipient, making them more likely to use the gift card and spend more money.

Ways to personalize gift cards for customers

• Customized designs: Companies can offer gift cards with customized designs, such as incorporating a customer's name or a personalized message. For example, Coca-Cola offers customized gift cards with customers' names printed on the front.
• Targeted promotions: Businesses can create promotions and offers for specific customers based on their preferences and purchase history. For example, Sephora offers personalized recommendations and upgrades to its Beauty Insider members based on their shopping habits.
• Digital gift cards: Digital gift cards can be personalized by allowing customers to upload a photo or video message. Airbnb, for example, provides digital gift cards capable of being personalized with images of the recipient's preferred trip destination.
• Personalized messages: Companies can include customized messages on the gift card to make it more meaningful to the recipient. For example, Nike offers gift cards with customized notifications for occasions such as birthdays and graduations.
• Social media sharing: Businesses can encourage customers to share their personalized gift cards on social media, increasing brand awareness and reach. For example, Starbucks enables customers to share their customized gift cards on social media using the hashtag StarbucksCard.

2. Leveraging social media

By leveraging social media platforms, companies can increase brand visibility, engage with customers, and promote their gift card offerings.

Strategies for using social media to promote gift cards

• Hashtags: Companies can use hashtags on social media to increase the visibility of their gift card promotions. For example, Starbucks uses the hashtag StarbucksGiftCard to promote its gift cards on Instagram and Twitter.
• Influencer marketing: Partnering with social media influencers can increase brand awareness and credibility, increasing gift card sales. Sephora partners with beauty influencers on Instagram and YouTube to promote their gift cards and raise brand awareness.
• Paid advertising: Companies can use paid advertising on social media platforms to target specific demographics and interests, leading to increased gift card sales. Airbnb uses paid advertising on Facebook and Instagram to promote their gift cards and increase brand awareness.
• Giveaways and contests: Running social media giveaways and contests can create excitement around gift cards and increase customer engagement. Amazon runs giveaways on social media to promote their gift cards and increase customer engagement.
• Personalization: Companies can use social media to offer personalized gift card options, increasing customer engagement and brand loyalty. Uber offers personalized gift card designs on social media, increasing customer engagement and driving gift card sales.

3. Use video content

Video content has become an increasingly popular tool for marketers, and gift card marketing is no exception. Videos can be used to create engaging and memorable experiences for customers while also effectively promoting gift card offerings.

Techniques for promoting gift cards with video content

• Product demos: Companies can create videos demonstrating the use and benefits of their gift cards. For example, Apple has created videos showing how to use their gift cards, highlighting the offering's ease of use and flexibility.
• Customer testimonials: Companies can create videos that feature customer testimonials, highlighting the positive experiences of using their gift cards. For example, Amazon has created videos featuring customers sharing their experiences with Amazon gift cards, emphasizing the convenience and flexibility of the offering.
• Animated explainers: Companies can use animated explainer videos to highlight the benefits of their gift cards engagingly and memorably. For example, Sephora has created animated explainer videos highlighting the help of their gift cards, including free beauty consultations and exclusive rewards.
• Social media stories: Companies can create short videos for social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat, promoting their gift card offerings in a visually engaging way. When you use YouTube, remember to create hashtags that match your campaign. This helps your videos reach the right people. For example, Starbucks has produced short video stories that promote their gift cards and highlight the convenience of mobile ordering.
• Personalized videos: Companies can create customized videos for customers, highlighting the unique features of their gift card offerings. For example, Airbnb has made customized videos for customers who purchase gift cards, featuring personalized messages and travel recommendations.

4. Offering incentives and rewards

Businesses can generate value for their customers and entice them to purchase more frequently or in larger quantities by delivering incentives and prizes.

Comprehending the significance of incentives and prizes in gift card marketing is critical. According to studies, people are more likely to acquire gift cards with compensation or incentive. Offering a discount on purchasing a gift card or a free item with a gift card, for example, can significantly improve sales.

To encourage repeat business, incentives, and awards might be used. Consumers given incentives or bonuses for purchasing gift cards are more likely to return to the store to redeem them, resulting in increased sales and customer loyalty.

Types of incentives and rewards that can be offered

• Discounts: One of the most typical gift card incentives is a discount. For example, offering a $5 discount on a $50 gift card can encourage buyers to buy the gift card rather than something else.
• Free gifts: Another significant inducement is to include a gift with the purchase of a gift card. For example, offering a free modest item such as a coffee cup or keychain can encourage buyers to acquire a gift card.
• Extra credit: Providing bonus credit with the purchase of a gift card can also be an adequate inducement. For example, offering a $10 bonus credit for every $100 spent on gift cards can encourage customers to spend more.
• Loyalty programs: Creating a loyalty program that rewards customers for purchasing gift cards can also be helpful. For example, points earned with each gift card purchase are often exchanged for discounts or prizes.
• Referral programs: Incentivizing consumers who encourage their friends and family to purchase gift cards can also be helpful. For example, offer a $5 credit for each person referred who buys a gift card.

5. Get creative with bundling

Bundling is a valuable gift card marketing approach that entails packaging various products or services at a reduced price. It may be a vital tool for organizations wanting to improve gift card sales by providing customers with an irresistible value proposition.

Being creative with gift card packing has several advantages. By packaging gift cards with comparable products or services, businesses can improve the perceived value of the gift card and motivate customers to purchase.

Furthermore, enterprises can reach new consumers by collaborating with complementary firms to develop distinctive and appealing gift packages.

6. Collaborating with other businesses

A corporation can develop a mutually beneficial partnership by leveraging its partner's client base, marketing channels, and brand equity by partnering with other businesses.

There are various advantages to collaborating with other firms for gift card marketing. It can assist businesses in reaching new audiences who may not have previously been exposed to their brand, increasing brand awareness, and providing customers with a broader selection of products and services to pick from.

Furthermore, cooperating with other businesses can result in cost savings and better efficiency because marketing resources and promotional efforts can be shared.

Collaborating with other businesses for gift card marketing can be a powerful strategy for businesses looking to increase sales, reach new audiences, and strengthen brand awareness. The key is to find complementary companies with a similar target audience and to develop a mutually beneficial relationship that provides value to customers. By working together, businesses can leverage each other's strengths and resources to create a win-win situation for everyone involved.

7. Making use of email marketing

Email marketing is an effective method for businesses to promote gift cards and improve sales. It enables firms to directly reach their target audience at a low cost and with high customization.

It also enables businesses to advertise their gift cards to existing and potential new customers who have demonstrated interest in their products or services. Email marketing campaigns can create urgency by providing subscribers with limited-time deals or exclusive discounts.

Strategies for effective email marketing for gift cards

• Build a subscriber list: The first step to effective email marketing is to build a list of subscribers interested in your products or services. Businesses can do this by offering a sign-up form on their website, promoting their email list on social media, attracting potential customers with a sales navigator, or running targeted advertising campaigns.
• Segment your audience: Once you have a subscriber list, it's essential to segment your audience based on their interests, purchasing history, and other demographic information. This allows you to send targeted and personalized emails that are more likely to result in sales.
• Design engaging emails: Designing engaging and visually appealing emails is critical to capturing your subscribers' attention and driving sales. Use high-quality images, clear and concise messaging, and a strong call-to-action to encourage subscribers to purchase gift cards.
• Use automation: Automation allows businesses to send targeted emails immediately without manual intervention. For example, companies can send a reminder email to subscribers who have abandoned their cart or a follow-up email to subscribers who have made a purchase.
• Offer incentives: Offering exclusive discounts, free shipping, or a gift with purchase can help drive gift card sales and increase customer loyalty.
• Monitor and analyze results: Finally, it's essential to monitor and analyze the results of your email campaigns to see what's working and what's not. Use tools like email analytics to track open, click-through, and conversion rates and adjust your strategy accordingly.

8. Creating urgency and scarcity

In gift card marketing, creating a feeling of urgency and scarcity entails creating the notion that there is a limited quantity of gift cards or a finite time to buy them, which can increase demand and drive sales.

Establishing a sense of urgency and scarcity is critical in gift card marketing since it motivates customers to act. Customers are more inclined to purchase a product or service if they believe it is in limited quantity or available for a short period. It will also assist firms in increasing sales and revenue.

Techniques for creating urgency and scarcity in gift card promotions:

• Limited-time offers: this creates a sense of urgency and encourages customers to purchase the gift card before the offer expires.
• Limited quantity: A controlled number of gift cards generates a sense of scarcity, creating demand and driving sales.
• Countdown timers: By displaying a countdown timer on your website or emails, you can develop a sense of urgency and persuade customers to purchase before the timer runs out.
• Exclusivity: Is done by offering gift cards only to customers who have made a certain amount of purchases or are part of a loyalty program.
• Flash sales: Flash sales are a great way to create urgency and encourage customers to purchase. By offering a discount or special offer for a short period, businesses can develop a sense of urgency and persuade customers to act quickly.
• Gift card bundles: Bundling gift cards with other products or services can create a perception of scarcity and increase demand. For example, offering finite gift cards and product bundles can create urgency and encourage customers to purchase.

9. Providing gift card balance and redemption options

Gift cards have become a popular choice for gift-givers and receivers alike. A gift card is a simple yet thoughtful gesture allowing the recipient to select their preferred item or experience.

Ways to provide gift card balance and redemption options for customers

• Online balance check: Providing an online balance check option on your website is an easy way for customers to check their gift card balance. They can enter their gift card number and PIN, and the remaining balance will appear on the screen.
• Mobile apps: Mobile apps allow customers to check their smartphone's gift card balances. They can also use the app to redeem their gift cards in-store or online.
• In-store Kkiosks: In-store kiosks allow customers to check their gift card balances and redeem their cards while they shop. This option benefits customers who prefer to shop in-store and want to use their gift cards immediately.
• Customer service: Providing a customer service phone number or email address for gift card inquiries is an excellent option for customers who prefer to speak to a representative directly. This option ensures that customers receive the support they need and builds trust with the brand.

10. Using influencers and referral marketing

When promoting gift cards, leveraging influencers and referral marketing can increase brand awareness, customer engagement, and sales.

Influencers are individuals with a significant following on social media who can sway their audience's opinions and behavior. On the other hand, referral marketing is a strategy that encourages existing customers to refer new customers to a business.

Strategies for leveraging influencers and referral marketing for gift cards

• Collaborate with influencers: Work with influencers to create sponsored content that promotes your gift cards. To incentivize them, offer them a free gift card or commission on sales generated from their promotion.
• Offer referral incentives: Encourage existing customers to refer new customers by offering referral incentives such as discounts or free gift cards. Make sure to track and reward referrals to encourage continued participation.
• Create Gift card giveaways: Partner with influencers to host a gift card giveaway on social media. Ask participants to follow your brand, tag friends, and share the post for a chance to win a gift card, generating excitement and increasing brand awareness.
• Highlight customer reviews: Share positive reviews from customers who have used your gift cards on social media or your website, providing social proof and encouraging others to purchase your gift cards.

11. Making use of gamification

Gamification is using game-like aspects to encourage and engage users in non-game environments. Gamification in gift card marketing can substantially impact customer engagement, brand exposure, and sales.

Ways to incorporate gamification into gift card promotions

• Scavenger hunts: Create a scavenger hunt where customers search for clues on your website or social media pages to unlock a gift card code, creating excitement and encouraging customers to explore your brand further.
• Spin to win: Create a digital spin wheel where customers can win different prizes, including gift cards. To increase engagement, publish this on your website or social media pages.
• Puzzle games: Create a puzzle game for customers to win a gift card, a fun way to engage customers while promoting your gift cards.
• Photo contests: Host a photo contest on social media where customers can submit photos of themselves using your gift cards, generating user-generated content and increasing brand awareness.
• Point system: Create a point system where customers earn points for each gift card purchase. These points can be redeemed for rewards, including gift cards, encouraging customers to return to your brand.

12. Creating a seamless user experience

A user-friendly gift card purchasing process can improve the overall customer experience, making purchasing and using gift cards easier for customers.

Strategies for creating a user-friendly gift card purchasing process

• Easy navigation: Ensure the gift card purchasing procedure is simple, with clear directions and easily accessible buttons.
• Simplified checkout: Simplify the steps required to purchase a gift card to simplify the procedure. Consider allowing clients to save their payment information for future transactions or offering one-click purchasing options.
• Mobile optimization: Make sure the gift card purchasing procedure suits mobile devices, as more and more people buy from their phones.
• Clear terms and conditions: Ensure the gift card's terms and conditions are explicit and easily comprehended, with no hidden fees or limits.
• Personalization: Consider offering personalization options for gift cards, such as adding a custom message or choosing a design that reflects the occasion.
• Multiple payment options: Make it simple for customers to purchase gift cards by offering a choice of payment options, such as credit cards, PayPal, Payment in chat, and other standard payment methods.
• Customer support: Provide customer support options such as live chat or phone support to assist clients with any problems or issues while purchasing gift cards.

13. Implementing a loyalty program

A well-designed loyalty program can inspire customers to make repeat purchases, drive brand loyalty, and push customers to spend more money.

Ways to implement a loyalty program for gift cards

• Points-based system: Implement a points-based system where customers earn points for every dollar spent on gift cards. These points are eligible to be redeemed for rewards, such as gift cards or exclusive discounts.
• Tiered system: Implement a tiered system where customers can earn rewards based on their level of spending. For example, customers who spend over a certain amount on gift cards can unlock higher tiers with better rewards.
• Referral program: Create a referral program in which consumers may earn prizes for recommending friends and family to the business to purchase gift cards..
• Bonus rewards: Customers who purchase gift cards during specified promotional times, such as holidays or special events, will receive additional benefits.
• Personalized rewards: Provide customized rewards based on consumer data, such as discounts on previously purchased products.
• Mobile app: Implement a mobile app that allows customers to track their rewards and redeem them directly from their mobile devices.

14. Offering digital and physical gift cards

As businesses adapt to changing consumer behavior, offering digital and physical gift card options has become crucial. Offering gift cards in both formats allows companies to cater to a broader range of customers and provide greater convenience and flexibility.

Ways to offer digital and physical gift cards to customers

• Online: Offer gift cards for purchase on your business's website. Customers can choose to receive the gift card electronically or by mail.
• In-store: Offer physical gift cards for purchase in-store, and give customers the option to have the gift card mailed to them or pick it up in person.
• Third-party websites: Consider collaborating with third-party websites like Amazon or GiftCards.com to help market your gift cards, increasing their visibility and reaching a wider audience.
• Mobile apps: Offer digital gift cards through your business's mobile app, allowing customers to easily purchase and redeem gift cards using their smartphones.

15. Providing multiple payment options

Several payment alternatives for gift cards are critical for businesses trying to improve customer happiness and grow sales.

Companies may respond to varied client preferences and make the gift card purchasing process more accessible and convenient by providing multiple payment alternatives.

Strategies for offering multiple payment options to customers

• Credit cards: Allow clients to pay using major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, a standard payment method that most companies widely accept.
• Debit cards: Enable clients to pay using their debit cards, a popular payment method for many customers. Some customers may have rewards or cash-back programs connected with their debit card they would like to use while purchasing a gift card.
• Mobile payments: With apps like Apple Pay or Google Wallet, customers can pay. This option is getting more popular because it offers clients a convenient and secure payment method.
• Gift cards: Allow clients to buy gift cards with their gift cards. Customers can use any unused gift card balances in this manner.
• PayPal: Offer customers the option to pay using PayPal, which is a popular and widely-used payment method for online transactions.

Conclusion

Businesses should first identify their target audience and develop a clear understanding of their preferences and buying behavior. Market research and data analysis can provide insights into customer demographics, purchase behaviors, and trends.

Once a business has identified its target audience, it can create gift card marketing campaigns that appeal to its specific interests and needs. Provide customizable gift card designs, promotional offers, and discounts, and reach clients through digital marketing channels such as social media and email marketing.

Another critical part of gift card marketing is facilitating customers' purchase and redemption of gift cards. Includes accepting several payment methods, making it simple and convenient to buy and redeem gift cards, and making them easily accessible and visible on the company's website and in-store.

Overall, utilizing gift card marketing methods can be highly effective for organizations to boost customer satisfaction, promote sales growth, and generate income.

Companies that offer inventive and engaging gift card campaigns can attract new consumers, retain existing ones, and develop a strong brand reputation to create long-term success.