The holiday season is not only the most wonderful time of the year but also one of the busiest for retailers. As consumers flock to stores in search of the perfect gifts, retail brands must be well-prepared to meet their demands. One strategic tool that can significantly boost sales during this festive period is gift cards. Here's how retail brands should prepare for the holiday season with gift cards, maximizing their benefits and making the most of holiday shoppers.
Stock up on gift cards
To kickstart your holiday preparations, make sure you have an ample supply of gift cards in stock. Analyze your previous holiday sales data to estimate the demand accurately, and consider ordering extra cards to ensure you don't run out during peak shopping periods.
Design festive gift cards
The aesthetics of your gift cards matter, especially during the holidays. Design festive and attractive card designs that resonate with the spirit of the season. Incorporate holiday-themed graphics, colors, and messages to make your cards stand out.
Online and in-store integration
Ensure that your gift card program seamlessly integrates with both your eCommerce and POS systems. Shoppers should be able to purchase gift cards on your website and use them in-store and vice versa. Look for a solution like Wrapped to provide maximum flexibility for customers.
Emphasize gift card convenience
The holiday season is busy, and shoppers value convenience. Promote the convenience of gift cards as an ideal solution for those looking for last-minute gifts or for recipients who prefer to choose their own presents.
Create gift card displays
Set up eye-catching gift card displays in your physical stores. Place them near checkout counters, entrances, and high-traffic areas to remind customers of this convenient gifting option.
Online gift card landing page
On your eCOmmerce store, create a dedicated product page for gift cards. Make it easy for customers to purchase and customize gift cards online, including options for email delivery and personal messages and videos. Look for a solution like Wrapped to offer gifting options that make the gifting and receiving experience a memorable one.
Promote on social media
Leverage your social media platforms to run holiday-themed gift card campaigns. Share posts showcasing your festive card designs and the convenience they offer to shoppers. Encourage customers to share their love for your brand by giving or receiving gift cards.
Train your staff
Ensure that your staff are well-trained to assist customers with gift card purchases and redemptions. They should be knowledgeable about the process and capable of answering any related questions.
Track and analyze sales
Throughout the holiday season, closely monitor your gift card sales and redemptions. Analyze the data to gain insights into customer behavior and preferences, helping you refine your gift card strategy for future seasons.