USA & Canada: +1-800-752-1017
International : +1 828-210-4754
Common Myths about Gift Cards Debunked
Gift cards have become one of the most versatile and appreciated gifting options in both personal and professional settings. However, despite their popularity, several misconceptions persist, and companies often hesitate to include gift cards in their corporate gifting strategies. These myths can hinder businesses from leveraging the full potential of gift cards as effective and thoughtful solutions for clients, employees, and partners.
Myth 1: Gift Cards Are Impersonal
The Myth: Gift cards lack thoughtfulness and don’t reflect genuine appreciation.
The Reality: The idea that gift cards are impersonal stems from the misconception that they involve no effort or thought. In reality, gift cards offer recipients the flexibility to choose something they truly value, making them one of the most considerate gifting options.
For businesses, customizable gift cards allow companies to add logos, personalized messages, or branding elements, making the gesture more meaningful. A recent survey by Research Nester found that personalized and customized gifting is popular in more than 55% of companies.
Myth 2: Gift Cards Are Only for the Holidays
The Myth: Gift cards are relevant only during festive seasons like Christmas.
The Reality: While gift cards see a surge in popularity during the holiday season, they are far from seasonal. Businesses can use gift cards year-round for various purposes, such as employee recognition, client appreciation, incentive programs, or milestone celebrations.
In fact, some of the most popular occasions for gift cards include birthdays, holidays, graduations, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day. In 2024, 56% of consumers gave gift cards for milestone events such as weddings, anniversaries, and baby showers, underscoring their versatility for various occasions.
Myth 3: Gift Cards Expire Too Quickly
The Myth: Recipients won’t have enough time to use the gift card before it expires.
The Reality: Federal regulations, such as the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act, ensure that most gift cards issued in the U.S. cannot expire for at least five years. Additionally, many businesses now offer gift cards with no expiration dates at all.
For corporate clients and employees, this flexibility ensures they have ample time to redeem the card without the pressure of a looming deadline, making it a stress-free gift.
Myth 4: Physical Gift Cards Are Outdated
The Myth: Physical gift cards are old-fashioned compared to modern digital options.
The Reality: While digital gift cards have gained popularity, physical gift cards remain the biggest seller. Many consumers still prefer tangible gift cards because they offer a more personal and memorable experience.
Consumers purchase gift cards for themselves with an average value of $51.93. The U.S. gift card market is expected to generate $324.5 billion in revenue in 2024 and grow 17.7% annually. This growth highlights that physical gift cards continue to dominate despite the rise of digital alternatives. Hand-delivered or elegantly packaged physical gift cards often leave a lasting impression. 90% of people consider physical gift cards an appropriate item to gift, highlighting their enduring appeal.
Myth 5: Gift Cards Don’t Provide a Tangible ROI
The Myth: Gift cards don’t offer measurable returns on investment for businesses.
The Reality: On the contrary, gift cards often lead to measurable outcomes in customer loyalty, employee retention, and client satisfaction. For example, a client who receives a thoughtful gift card is more likely to continue their business relationship, while employees rewarded with gift cards show higher engagement levels.
Gift Cards Market size was over USD 1.15 trillion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 9.05 trillion by 2037, growing at around 17.2%. This makes gift cards a strategic investment in both relationships and profitability.
Gift cards are not just convenient; they are thoughtful, flexible, and effective solutions for corporate gifting. By debunking these common myths, businesses in the U.S. can confidently incorporate gift cards into their strategies, ensuring satisfaction for clients, employees, and partners alike.
From their customizable nature to their wide-ranging appeal, gift cards are far from generic or impersonal. Instead, they offer businesses a practical and appreciated way to show gratitude, recognize achievements, and build stronger relationships—all while avoiding many of the logistical challenges associated with traditional gifts.
About Plasticard – Locktech International
PLI is the largest Closed Loop Gift, Loyalty and Hospitality card manufacturer in North America. PLI has been in business for over 30 years, specializing in end-to-end card marketing solutions including card production, design, packaging, displays, consulting and fulfillment services and capabilities. PLI has three manufacturing facility locations including two in Las Vegas, NV and one in Asheville, NC.
Recent
Gift cards have become a staple in the world of retail and hospitality, representing an easy and popular choice for both gift-givers and recipients. They offer the perfect solution for those who are unsure about what to buy, allowing recipients the flexibility to choose what they truly want.
21 Oct 2025
In today’s competitive market, businesses are constantly seeking ways to enhance customer loyalty and boost sales. One strategy that has proven to be both effective and versatile is incorporating gift cards into your loyalty program.
7 Oct 2025
In the competitive world of business, retaining customers is just as important as acquiring new ones. Gift cards have emerged as a strategic tool to not only boost customer retention but also to enhance brand loyalty. By offering gift cards, businesses can create a win-win situation for both customers and the company itself.
30 Sep 2025
Las Vegas, NV – September 22, 2025 – As PLI continues to grow its G&L business, it is excited to announce a new addition to the Strategic Sales team. Katie Schroeder will report to Mary Parks and will be Director of Strategic Sales. Katie is a seasoned professional in the gift card industry with more than seven years of experience at Inspire Brands.
22 Sep 2025
Las Vegas, NV – September 17, 2025 – PLI is proud to announce that Stephanie Thompson, VP of Business Development, has been elected to the Retail Gift Card Association (RGCA) Board of Directors! The RGCA is the premier organization for the gift card industry, made up of retailers, vendors, and industry experts who are passionate about promoting best practices, driving innovation, and ensuring the long-term success of the gift card space.
17 Sep 2025
Las Vegas, NV – September 16, 2025 – PLI is excited to announce a new addition to the Strategic G&L team. Shawn will report to Mary Parks and will be Director of Strategic Sales. With more than 18 years of experience in enterprise sales, business development, and corporate marketing, Shawn Howard is a proven leader in driving substantial growth and innovation.
16 Sep 2025
Las Vegas, NV - September 11, 2025 – What makes a company truly exceptional? At PLI, the answer is simple: our employees. Behind every breakthrough, milestone, and success story is our PLI family—an extraordinary group of individuals who bring passion, creativity, and dedication to work every single day.
12 Sep 2025
Las Vegas, NV – September 10, 2025 – PLI today announced that Chief Financial Officer Perry Morgan will retire effective November 21, 2025. Morgan has served as CFO since 2021, building a strong finance organization and contributing to the company’s growth and success well beyond the finance function.
10 Sep 2025
Newsroom
PLI Welcomes Katie Schroeder to Strategic G&L Team
Las Vegas, NV – September 22, 2025 – As PLI continues to grow its G&L business, it is excited to announce a new addition to the Strategic Sales team. Katie Schroeder will report to Mary Parks and will be Director of Strategic Sales. Katie is a seasoned professional in the gift card industry with more than seven years of experience at Inspire Brands. | 22 Sep 2025
PLI’s Stephanie Thompson Elected to RGCA Board of Directors
Las Vegas, NV – September 17, 2025 – PLI is proud to announce that Stephanie Thompson, VP of Business Development, has been elected to the Retail Gift Card Association (RGCA) Board of Directors! The RGCA is the premier organization for the gift card industry, made up of retailers, vendors, and industry experts who are passionate about promoting best practices, driving innovation, and ensuring the long-term success of the gift card space. | 17 Sep 2025
PLI Welcomes Shawn Howard to Strategic G&L Team
Las Vegas, NV – September 16, 2025 – PLI is excited to announce a new addition to the Strategic G&L team. Shawn will report to Mary Parks and will be Director of Strategic Sales. With more than 18 years of experience in enterprise sales, business development, and corporate marketing, Shawn Howard is a proven leader in driving substantial growth and innovation. | 16 Sep 2025
Celebrating Our Greatest Asset: The PLI Family
Las Vegas, NV - September 11, 2025 – What makes a company truly exceptional? At PLI, the answer is simple: our employees. Behind every breakthrough, milestone, and success story is our PLI family—an extraordinary group of individuals who bring passion, creativity, and dedication to work every single day. | 12 Sep 2025
PLI Names New CFO as Perry Morgan Announces Retirement
Las Vegas, NV – September 10, 2025 – PLI today announced that Chief Financial Officer Perry Morgan will retire effective November 21, 2025. Morgan has served as CFO since 2021, building a strong finance organization and contributing to the company’s growth and success well beyond the finance function. | 10 Sep 2025
PLI Announces Retirement of Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Leeton Lee
Las Vegas, NV – September 10, 2025 – PLI today announced that Leeton Lee, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, will retire effective December 31, 2025, after more than four years of service with the company. | 10 Sep 2025
PLI Marketing Organizational Announcement
Las Vegas, NV – September 9, 2025 – PLI is excited to announce Tyler Hirashima has been promoted to Marketing Manager still reporting to Mary Parks. Tyler has been with PLI for 1.5 years and has played a key role in producing impactful marketing materials for our Hospitality and G&L teams. His creativity, can-do attitude, and drive have strengthened our communications and brand presence. We look forward to seeing Tyler continue to elevate our marketing efforts in his new role! | 9 Sep 2025
PLI HEAT Organizational Announcement
Asheville, NC – September 2, 2025 - PLI is excited to announce an important new addition to the HEAT division: Phil Traywick will be joining us as Vice President of Sales for HEAT, effective Tuesday, September 2. Phil will report directly to our CEO, Mark McEachen and be based in Asheville, NC. | 9 Sep 2025
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1030 E. Craig Road N. Las Vegas, NV 89030Get DirectionsUSA & Canada: 1-800-752-1017
International: +1 828-210-4754
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