These days, small independent businesses love custom gift cards and loyalty programs. Many owners are wondering if it would be better to switch from gift certificates to plastic gift cards, they don’t want to invest the money if there’s not going to be a payoff. The fact of the matter is – this is a profitable move. Even so, countless smaller businesses are resistant to the change, and there are two reasons for this: it is too expensive to invest in a gift card program, and what is the point of switching over if gift cards are going to be replaced with digital options soon enough?
Even though these are good and reasonable arguments, they are not the be-all-end-all of the issue. In fact, here are four reasons for card-based loyalty:
- Practicality of use
- Expendability
- You can shop online
- They allow you to hold on to their value
Practicality of Use
We live in a handheld society, like it or not. Customers have come to expect easy to carry products that are durable and can be moved around almost effortlessly. Paper gift certificates are not durable. They are easily lost, crumpled up, or forgotten about. Ask yourself how many gift certificates have you lost or discovered in your washing machine? Plastic gift cards are simply much more durable.
Expendability
Loyalty programs exist for more reasons than just getting new customers; that’s just on of the advantages. Another thing would be that cards can be tracked, if the original card is lost or stolen, you can discontinue the old one and have a new one issued. On the other hand, a paper gift certificate, once gone, is gone for good.
You Can Shop Online
Part of the reasons, gift certificates are inferior is because they have to be used in person. The advantage the gift card has is that you can use it online. It helps reduce the shopper stress when you just have to click a mouse button. Wherever credit cards are accepted, gift cards can be used.
They Allow You to Hold on to Their Value
At the time of the purchase, gift certificates have to be fully used or surrendered. Gift cards can be used for any amount until the full amount has been spent. You can also reload them. This is one of their best qualities and a particular reason why customers tend to be so fond of them. You can either use them to make smaller purchases or save the value for something bigger.
In Need of Custom Gift Cards? Opt for Quickcards
When you’re searching for that extra something to give you an edge over the competition, it may turn out to be the thing you least expect. Custom gift cards may sound like too simple a solution, but they can be an incredibly effective tool for boosting your sales. If you’re considering getting a gift card program off the ground, turn to the experts at Quickcards to help you with all your gift card needs. Quickcards can manufacture everything from business cards, club membership and party invitation cards to fundraiser discount cards, wallet-sized family photo cards and custom photo ID badges. Get in touch with Quickcards today and let the pros help you maximize your business potential.
