The holiday season is one of the most crucial times of the year for retailers, and gift cards play a pivotal role in maximizing sales during this period. As more consumers turn to gift cards as an easy, versatile gifting option, retailers must develop strategic approaches to make the most of this trend. Here’s how you can leverage gift cards to boost your holiday sales, especially during Christmas.
Holiday-themed gift cards
Consumers are always on the lookout for personalized gifts, and holiday-themed gift cards offer a perfect solution. Retailers can create festive designs for digital and physical gift cards, featuring Christmas themes, holiday greetings, or even customizable messages from the buyer. This adds a personal touch that makes gift cards feel like a thoughtful gift, rather than a last-minute solution.
Promotions and upsell opportunities
One of the most effective ways to drive gift card sales during the holiday season is through promotions. Offer bonus value gift cards—such as “buy a 50€ gift card, get a 10€ bonus”—to incentivize customers to spend more. Retailers can also bundle gift cards with other holiday-themed items, such as wrapping paper or gift boxes, for an additional fee.
Upselling opportunities are also abundant during the holidays. For example, when a customer purchases a gift card, suggest a related product that they could include in their gift. This not only increases the average transaction value but also enhances the overall gifting experience for the buyer.
Targeting last-minute shoppers
Christmas is notorious for attracting last-minute shoppers, many of whom turn to gift cards as a convenient, quick solution. Retailers should ramp up marketing efforts, particularly on digital platforms, to promote the ease of buying digital gift cards that can be delivered instantly via email or text. Consider sending email reminders to customers about last-minute gift card options, highlighting how simple and fast the process can be.
Maximizing in-store and online sales
With the right platform, such as SmartGifty, retailers can offer a seamless experience for purchasing gift cards both in-store and online. By allowing customers to buy digital cards online and redeem them either in-store or on your website, you cater to a broader audience. Promote this omni-channel experience in your holiday marketing campaigns to emphasize the flexibility of your gift cards.
Leveraging data for post-holiday engagement
Holiday gift cards provide retailers with a post-holiday sales boost, as recipients redeem their cards in the weeks following Christmas. Use this opportunity to engage with new customers and encourage them to return by offering special promotions or discounts when they redeem their gift cards. With SmartGifty, you can track redemptions and send personalized follow-up offers, turning holiday shoppers into loyal customers.
By focusing on gift card sales as part of your holiday strategy, you can capture additional revenue, increase customer satisfaction, and set the stage for strong post-holiday engagement.
