There are few things we love more than gift cards. They take the hassle out of shopping for the perfect gift, and spare us from having to return a not-so-perfect one. Unsurprisingly, we use gift cards to spend an average of  $400 billion each year. 

Gift cards are also an indispensable asset for businesses.

• They are extremely cost-effective.
• They drive brand awareness.
• They increase in-store traffic.
• They boost average transaction values.

But this apparent win-win solution has one big loser: the environment.

In the UK alone, nearly two billion single-use PVC cards are produced annually. That amounts to roughly 2,500 tonnes of plastic, most of which quickly finds its way to landfills. 

How Paper Gift Cards Maximize Benefits For Your Business

Consumers and companies won’t give up on gift cards. Yet changing attitudes on environmental issues are bound to affect their future use. Could an eco-friendly alternative be the answer?

YES. And better yet, paper gift cards can actually maximize the benefits of traditional gift cards. Let’s dive in and see how.

Paper Gift Cards Cost Your Business Less

Yes, you read that right. Making the switch from plastic to paper gift cards will save businesses anywhere from 10-40% on their production.

In 2022, cost is the #1 factor we consider when deciding whether to go for green alternatives. Opting for paper gift cards allows businesses to make a visible step towards sustainability when other eco-friendly actions are out of reach. 

Paper gift cards require less turnaround time, too. This is a huge asset when a store sells more of them than expected or needs to launch a last-minute gift card offer. 

Paper Gift Cards Communicate A Positive Brand Image 

Gift cards do a fantastic job of putting brands in a positive light because…everyone loves a gift. But in 2022, sustainability is influencing purchasing choices more than ever. 

A recent survey suggests that businesses will need to adapt to changing consumer habits in order to keep up with market trends.

• 64% of respondents limit the use of single-use plastics (+3% from 2020).
• 40% opt for brands that have environmentally sustainable practices/values (+6%).
• The #1 indicator of sustainability among respondents is whether a product is made from natural materials or a renewable resource (65%).

The earthy texture and natural scent of paper gift cards doesn’t just suggest sustainability: it shouts it. They convince us that a large franchise is doing their part and drive the brand message of smaller, eco-friendly businesses even further. 

Paper gift cards instantly and effectively communicate that a company, regardless of its size or industry, is taking action on behalf of the planet. And in 2022, that is smart marketing. 

Paper Gift Cards Drive More Customer Traffic

Nobody turns down free money. Once you get a gift card, you’re going to that store, right? 

It’s true, gift cards absolutely drive customer traffic. And roughly ⅔ of consumers will spend more than 38% of the card’s value once they’re inside. 

However, 30% of gift card value goes unspent annually as cards are forgotten and left to expire in drawers or wallets. That sounds like a plus for businesses who make money without selling any products. But each unused gift card is a missed opportunity to create returning customers. 

Paper gift cards are not plastic. Their natural texture tells you “handle with care” and encourages you to use it before you lose it. Because businesses benefit more when their cards are redeemed, paper gift cards offer greater overall earning potential than plastic cards.

Your Marketing Takes Root With Paper Gift Cards from Glascard 

We’re Glascard. We create paper gift cards that make sustainability accessible and beneficial to consumers and businesses alike. 

Our mission is simple: save the earth and optimise the gift card experience for everyone. And we’re doing it one, beautifully-designed, 100% biodegradable card at a time. 

Sustainability you can see and touch

Our cards are made exclusively with FSC certified recycled paper and are 100% recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable. We print them using vegan ink and our CO₂ neutral press. 

Gorgeous design

We combine the beauty of firm, textured paper and rich, vibrant colors to create a stunning, fully customisable brand image that catches the eye and makes an impact. 

A gift card that feels like a gift

Gift giving is a deeply human gesture. And we want each card we produce to preserve an authentic feeling of love and gratitude. Our paper gift cards come with a range of unique wallets, sleeves, or greeting cards to offer a more personal experience than plastic cards.

Make The Most Of Gift Card Season With 15% Off From Glascard

There’s never been a better time to make the switch – 50% of gift cards are bought for the holidays. That is too good an opportunity to let go!

That’s why Glascard is giving you 15% off on your first order. That’s right. Claim your discount now and ace your gift card game this holiday season.

Claim my discount!