According to the latest predictions from the Gift Card & Voucher Association (GCVA), gifting industry is seeing a shift in consumer behaviour towards digital gifting solutions.
With many gifting occasions coming up, Easter, Father’s Day and millions of birthdays, people are looking for ways to show care for their loved ones in ways that minimise contact, in order to comply with the isolation rules.
The GCVA research shows that digital gifting already takes up 25 percent of all UK gift cards and the number is expected to increase dramatically in the following weeks.
The forecast says that every fourth consumer will be opting for digital gifting options, coupled with a possibility to use the gift card at a later date – also known as “sunny day gifting” – when the everyday life stabilises.
Gail Cohen, director general of the GCVA, commented: “Life as we know it has changed beyond recognition over the past few weeks, however gift cards remain a wonderfully versatile way of both showing your loved ones how much you care – even if you’re not able to be with them – and brightening up their day.
“It’s also worth bearing in mind that many physical gift cards can be redeemed online from the comfort of your home, and can often be used to purchase the essentials people may need to see them through the coming weeks.”