Paper Gift Cards: A Classic Solution for Modern Business Challenges

In an era where innovation takes center stage, paper gift cards continue to be an enduring and effective option for businesses. While often overshadowed by newer trends, paper gift cards offer distinct advantages, making them a meaningful choice for businesses focused on creating lasting impressions, embracing sustainable-cards, and elevating the customer experience.
The Unique Appeal of Paper Gift Cards
1. Increased Consumer Appeal
Paper gift cards excel in creating a personal and heartfelt experience for both givers and recipients. Their physical form adds a sense of substance and care, transforming them into a gift that feels truly thoughtful. The act of giving and receiving a paper gift card carries an emotional weight, emphasizing the effort and intention behind the gesture.
Unlike abstract or impersonal alternatives, the tactile nature of a paper gift card conveys an emotional message that resonates deeply. These cards are more than just transactions—they symbolize value and thoughtfulness. This makes them an exceptional choice for personal gifting and corporate recognition, leaving a lasting impression on the recipient.
2. Superior Look and Feel Compared to PVC Cards
The physicality of paper gift cards allows for a superior design experience compared to other materials like plastic. The texture of premium paper evokes a sense of sophistication and quality, perfectly aligning with thoughtful gifting. Businesses can craft bespoke designs, incorporating vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and high-quality printing techniques to showcase their unique brand identity.
The versatility of paper gift cards also opens the door to creative customization, making them more desirable to customers. Their eco-conscious appeal adds another layer of value, positioning them as both functional and visually striking. These qualities make paper gift cards a cherished item that recipients are proud to receive.
3. Timeless Appeal and Versatility
Paper gift cards have a timeless quality that resonates across generations. Their classic charm and tactile nature evoke nostalgia and warmth, making them a universally appreciated choice. Whether used for birthdays, anniversaries, corporate rewards, or holiday celebrations, paper gift cards seamlessly adapt to any occasion.
Their versatility also extends to their use in various industries, from retail and hospitality to entertainment and services. Businesses can leverage the timeless nature of paper gift cards to create a sense of enduring value, fostering long-term relationships with customers and recipients alike. This adaptability cements paper gift cards as a perennial favorite for both personal and professional gifting.
Paper Gift Cards and Sustainability
A key advantage of paper gift cards lies in their environmentally friendly qualities. As businesses and consumers alike seek sustainable solutions, paper gift cards offer an alternative that aligns with these values.
- Recyclable and Biodegradable Materials: Many paper gift cards are crafted from recycled or biodegradable materials, reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.
- Energy-Efficient Production: The creation of paper cards can often require fewer resources compared to other options, emphasizing efficiency.
- Positive Brand Impact: Choosing sustainable materials for gift cards enhances a company’s reputation, appealing to environmentally conscious customers and setting a positive example within the industry.
Best Practices for Using Paper Gift Cards Effectively
To fully harness the benefits of paper gift cards, businesses should consider the following strategies:
- Opt for Eco-Friendly Materials: Emphasize your commitment to sustainable-cards by using recycled or biodegradable options.
- Invest in Design: A thoughtfully designed card with premium materials can elevate its perceived value and strengthen its impact.
- Incorporate Branding: Integrate your company’s logo, colors, and messaging to reinforce your brand identity and enhance recognition.
- Track Usage: Implement methods to monitor gift card activity, gathering insights for future marketing campaigns and improvements.
- Personalize Where Possible: Adding handwritten messages or unique packaging can make the gift feel more special, fostering a deeper connection with the recipient.
Paper gift cards remain a timeless and impactful choice for businesses. Their tangible presence, eco-friendly advantages, and ability to foster meaningful connections make them a valuable addition to any business strategy. Whether used to enhance loyalty programs, increase brand awareness, or drive customer engagement, paper gift cards consistently deliver results that resonate with consumers.
For companies looking to align with modern values, embrace sustainable-cards, and create memorable customer experiences, paper gift cards represent an enduring and effective solution. Choose the simplicity and charm of paper to leave a lasting impression that speaks to the priorities of today’s thoughtful consumers.
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
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
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
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
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
Asheville, NC – July 28th, 2025 - PLI is excited to announce an important new addition to the HEAT division: Matt Pegg joined us as Director of Sales, reporting directly to our VP of Sales for HEAT. Matt brings a strong background in leadership and sales within the hospitality and event sectors. He will be onsite, working closely with the sales team, and operations.
9 Sep 2025
Newsroom

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

PLI HEAT Organizational Announcement
Asheville, NC – July 28th, 2025 - PLI is excited to announce an important new addition to the HEAT division: Matt Pegg joined us as Director of Sales, reporting directly to our VP of Sales for HEAT. Matt brings a strong background in leadership and sales within the hospitality and event sectors. He will be onsite, working closely with the sales team, and operations. | 9 Sep 2025