I recently talked about the way that store coupons appear to be changing -- they're going more toward a gift card look and feel.
Now, it turns out that gift cards (or gift certificates) are actually getting a facelift of their own...
Where To Find Gift Cards
Not only are gift cards readily available at virtually every store, restaurant, or entertainment venue in America. They're even available at some places where you'd least expect to find 'em.Did you know you can go into practically any drugstore chain (Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, etc.) and find gift cards in various denominations for literally dozens of other stores and services?
For example, at my local Walgreens, you can get a Chili's gift certificate, a TGI Friday's gift card, Applebee's, Target... and dozens more.
Personalized Gift Cards
Now... it turns out that gift cards are also highly customizable....with your own photos (more here).
More about personalized photo gift cards -- including the cost & profit, who's doing it, and why.
The Downside Of Gift Cards
I recently saw a report on CBS MoneyWatch that said 27% of last year's gift cards have not been used.More about this interesting phenomenon:
Consumer Reports: Avoid Gift Card Pitfalls
Looking A Gift Horse In The Mouth
Gift Cards Aren't Even Cards These Days
In an attempt to speed up the process between getting the gift card and giving it, many stores are doing what online stores like Amazon and Apple iTunes have done for years. They're making "online gift certificates" transferable via e-mail and available for spending within hours.You select the amount. Your friend receives it via email within hours. And the recipient can shop online immediately. They're perfect for last-minute gifts!
Some examples:
Walmart
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Hi Jim and Lynnette,
I wanted to let you know that I just found a new site called BukooGifts.com. You select the price and categories and then you pick the greeting card and type in your personal message! Then the recipient receives an email with hundreds of name brand products to choose from. I have sent out several of these for birthdays and anniversaries. I just wanted to share this with you!
Thanks,
Janet