A Holistic Approach on Shifting to a Sustainable Card Program
There are many aspects of moving your card program to a more sustainable footprint that you need to be aware of before making the move. Naturally, consumer preferences are the top priority. Then you have Brand Equity, Stakeholder value, Pricing, Materials and more. Over the next few blog posts, I will be looking into these topics at a more granular level. I’ll also introduce some new sustainable materials and their benefits that you may not be aware of today.
Let’s look at consumer preferences and how they will affect your move first. Many of our customers are demanding a more sustainable gift card. They want to know what they are purchasing and gifting is helping our environment.
Of course, we want to answer that ask, but we need to make sure the card functions just as beautifully as it looks. For example, if your target customers use the cards a few times, load them onto a mobile wallet or redeem with a barcode as opposed to a mag, a paper substrate is probably a good direction to go. If your cards are used at gas pumps, swiped via mag multiple times or other more “wearing” use, you probably want to look at a Chalk, Recycled PVC or another more durable substrate. To add the glitz and flash that gets the customers to choose your cards, there are multiple ink, foil, silk screen and other options available that are green and still allow your cards to be recycled at a curbside level (level 1).
Then there is the need to let your customers know that they are helping the environment by choosing your card. In one recent survey, 65% said they want to buy purpose-driven brands that advocate sustainability, yet only about 26% actually do.* We need to make sure our customers know what they are buying so they will choose your card. We think the best way is typically on the card or carrier/backer art itself. A blurb like “this chalk-based card helped save multiple trees” goes a long way! However, if that doesn’t fit in your current program, you could add the message to your display or an add-on message board. There are many opportunities to make sure the message is received, and we can help! As always, PLI is happy to help answer any of your questions and guide you through your transition. Feel free to reach out to your representative or myself.
Next month, I’ll focus on Brand Equity and the benefits of moving to a more sustainable card program.
Take care of each other, and we’ll talk to you again next month!
*Harvard Business Review
Recent
As environmental consciousness continues to grow, companies are increasingly integrating sustainability into their operations.
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Gift cards have evolved into a key part of the American consumer landscape, appreciated for their flexibility, convenience, and ability to cater to various tastes.
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Gift cards have long been a popular choice in the gifting industry, providing an easy and versatile way to express appreciation, celebrate milestones, and offer recipients the freedom to choose their own gift.
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ASHEVILLE, NC – November 26, 2024 – As we approach Thanksgiving, we are reminded of the importance of gratitude and unity we’ve experienced.
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Newsroom

PLI Renews with the U.S. EPA SmartWay® Transport Partnership
LAS VEGAS, NV - January 9, 2025 - PLI has submitted and received approval for their current data submission to the SmartWay® Transport Partnership, an innovative collaboration between U.S. | 9 Jan 2025

‘Tis the Season for Gratitude: A Christmas Luncheon to Remember
LAS VEGAS, NV and ASHEVILLE, NC – December 23, 2024 – The holiday season was in full swing at PLI’s Asheville and Las Vegas facilities as the company hosted its Annual Christmas Luncheon for its employees. | 23 Dec 2024

Holiday Message from our CEO
As we approach the end of 2024, I am reminded of the extremely busy year we have had and to reflect on our successes as a company. | 20 Dec 2024

Grateful for Strength After Hurricane Helene
ASHEVILLE, NC – November 26, 2024 – As we approach Thanksgiving, we are reminded of the importance of gratitude and unity we’ve experienced. | 26 Nov 2024

A Thanksgiving Message from our CEO to Employees
As we approach this special season of giving thanks, I want to take a moment to extend my deepest gratitude to each one of you for your hard work and dedication you put forth each day at PLI. | 25 Nov 2024

PLI G&L Operations Organization Change
Effective immediately, I am making the following changes to the G&L operations team | 20 Nov 2024

Leadership Awards Program Winners for Q3 2024
LAS VEGAS, NV and ASHEVILLE, NC - November 1, 2024 - Success in any field is fueled by strong leadership, and it’s crucial to honor those who consistently guide their teams to new heights. PLI understands that recognizing their employees’ excellence plays a vital role in its continued success. | 1 Nov 2024

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