Top 10 Facts About Gift Cards Everyone Should Know in 2025.

Do You Know Gift Cards Are Still the Most Requested Gifts in 2025?

Let’s be real, guys: buying gifts can be stressful. Will they like it? Do they already have it? Is it the proper size or colour? That’s why gift cards continue to reign supreme in 2025. They have been topping the list of most requested presents for years, and this year is no different. People love the freedom to choose exactly what they want, and gift cards make that super easy. Whether birthdays, holidays, weddings, or just a random thank-you, gift cards hit the sweet spot between thoughtfulness and practicality.

What makes gift cards so appealing is that they eliminate the awkward guessing game. Instead of buying a sweater that might not fit or a gadget someone already owns, you hand over the power of choice. That is a win for both the giver and the receiver. And it is not just physical stores anymore; it includes digital marketplaces, subscription services, and even niche hobbies that now have branded cards. In 2025, there’s a gift card for literally everything.

The Rise of Experience and Digital Gift Cards

The idea of gifting experiences instead of “stuff” is becoming more popular, especially among Gen Z and Millennials. In 2025, experience-based gift cards have carved out a significant niche. Think about spa days, wine tastings, escape rooms, or online courses. These aren’t just gifts but also memories waiting to happen.

Additionally, platforms like Airbnb, MasterClass, and Uber Eats now offer personalised gift cards that let recipients choose how they want to indulge. It’s about providing something meaningful and flexible. No wonder they are so in demand.

1. Digital Gift Cards Are Dominating the Market.

Shift from Plastic to Pixels

Once upon a time, gift cards were small plastic rectangles that ended up in wallets or drawers—if you didn’t lose them first. But in 2025, digital gift cards have officially taken over. The pandemic gave the first big push toward digital gifting, and since then, the trend has only picked up speed. Now, you can send a card via email, text, or even a social media message. No postage. No shipping. No delays.

It’s all about convenience and instant gratification. Need a last-minute birthday gift? Forgot an anniversary? Boom—send a digital gift card in under a minute. Plus, it’s environmentally friendly (bye-bye, plastic waste), and you never have to worry about physically losing it.

How Businesses Are Adapting to the Digital Trend

Businesses have caught on fast. E-commerce platforms have upgraded their gift card features, allowing more personalization, faster delivery, and better security. Mobile wallet integration is now the norm. Whether you are using Apple Pay, Google Wallet, or Samsung Pay, you can store and use your gift cards with a simple tap.

Even small businesses are joining the party. With easy-to-integrate tools and APIs, local shops and independent creators can offer digital gift cards directly through their websites or social media. It’s a win-win: more sales for them and more convenience for customers.

2. Digital Gift Card Sales are Predicted to Hit Over $5 Billion in 2025

The worldwide digital gift card market has grown rapidly in recent years and is predicted to continue through 2025.

A recent analysis by Persistence Market Research (2017) projects that by 2025, the worldwide gift card industry will reach $5 billion.

Changes in consumer purchasing patterns are the primary cause of this development.

Digital gift certificates have gradually replaced paper ones in consumer preferences.

Approximately 65% of consumers now buy ad-free digital gift cards, a 33% increase from the previous year.

The key is the quickly growing mobile benefit of gift cards and other cutting-edge e-commerce technologies, increasing the market's interest in digital gift cards.

3. You Can Personaliseallow you to upload your own Gift Cards More Than Ever

From Custom Messages to Video Greetings

Gone are the days when gift cards felt impersonal. In 2025, personalisation is everything. When sending a digital gift card, you can attach a heartfelt message, a fun GIF, or even a video greeting. Some platforms allow you to upload your own video or choose from pre-designed animated templates. This makes digital cards feel a lot more…well, human.

Imagine sending your best friend a Starbucks card with a goofy video of you saying, “Get your caffeine fix on me!” It turns a simple card into a memorable gift that brings a smile.

Brands Offering Full Customization Options

Top retailers and tech platforms are stepping up their game. Amazon, Target, Sephora, and PlayStation, among others, now allow users to design their own cards. You can pick themes, add names, choose delivery dates, and even schedule multiple cards for different events in advance. It’s basically like planning your gift-giving calendar with a few clicks.

For businesses, this level of customisation helps maintain brand loyalty and makes every gift feel tailored. For consumers, it adds that special touch without much extra effort.

4. Some Gift Cards Gain Value Over Time.

Promotional Bonus Offers

Here’s a fun twist: in 2025, some gift cards aren’t just holding their value, but also they’re growing it. Retailers and restaurants often offer promotional deals, such as “Buy a $50 gift card, get a $10 bonus.” These limited-time offers are common during holidays and major shopping events, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Prime Day.

This strategy helps boost sales and incentivises customers to spend more upfront. It’s great for the buyer (who gets a little extra) and the store (which locks in future spending). So watch for these deals; they can stretch your gift-giving budget.

Seasonal and Loyalty-Based Value Increases

Some loyalty programs now integrate with gift card balances. If you use a gift card within a specific brand ecosystem, you may earn points or receive seasonal bonuses. For example, a $25 card during a store’s anniversary month might earn extra discounts or reward credits.

It’s all about building engagement. Companies want you to spend on your card and return for more, so they’re willing to sweeten the deal to make it happen.

5. Unused Gift Cards Are Costing Consumers Billions.

The Psychology Behind Forgetting to Redeem

It sounds crazy, but it’s true: some consumers are sitting on billions of dollars in unused gift card balances every year. In 2025, the average household has $175 in forgotten or partially used cards. Why does this happen? Mostly, it’s psychological. Out of sight, out of mind. Physical cards get lost or buried in drawers. Digital ones get buried in email inboxes.

Then there’s the “breakage” factor: people forget they have a card or don’t bother spending the leftover $3.45 balance. That small change adds up across millions of users.

Tips to Track and Manage Your Gift Cards

To avoid losing money, it’s smart to get organised. Use mobile wallet apps like Stocard or Gyft to store and track your cards. Some banking apps also allow you to log gift cards with balance alerts. If you’re an email hoarder, create a dedicated folder for digital gift cards to make them easy to find.

Additionally, make it a habit to check your balances monthly. Treat them like a mini-gift account. And don’t forget that some of the US states have expiration rules, so using your card is better than losing it.

6. There’s a Growing Secondary Market for Gift Cards.

How to Sell or Exchange Unwanted Cards

We’ve all been there; you get a gift card to a store you never shop at or a restaurant you don’t like. Instead of letting it gather dust, 2025 offers more innovative ways to turn those unused cards into real value. The secondary market for gift cards has evolved into a legitimate and trusted platform where you can securely sell, trade, or exchange gift cards.

Websites like Raise, PayPal, and even Apex Network Gift Card Exchange allow users to list unwanted gift cards for sale or trade them in for cash. You won’t always get the full face value; expect a value between 80% and 95%, depending on the brand you’re trading it for, but it’s still better than letting it expire. Some platforms offer direct exchanges, such as converting your Macy’s card into a Netflix Gift card.

Gift card kiosks in physical stores are now more advanced. You can scan a card, get a cash offer, and get your payout instantly. For many consumers, it’s a practical way to free up money for purchases they want.

Trusted Platforms for Buying Discounted Gift Cards

On the flip side, if you’re shopping for yourself, the secondary market is a goldmine for savings. You can score gift cards for major retailers—think Walmart, Home Depot, and Starbucks at 5% to 25% off. These deals are convenient during holiday shopping sprees or back-to-school season.

When buying, make sure you stick to reputable platforms. Look for guarantees, refund policies, and user reviews. Many platforms offer digital delivery in minutes, making them as fast as buying new cards, but way more affordable.

7. Security is a Bigger Concern Than Ever.

Common Scams in 2025 to Watch Out For

With the digital boom comes the inevitable rise of digital scams—and yes, gift cards are a significant target. In 2025, scammers are more sophisticated, and their tactics are sneakier. One of the most common schemes is impersonation fraud. The scammer pretends to be someone you know (like a boss or family member), urgently asking you to buy a gift card and send them the code.

Another trick involves fake websites that appear to be legitimate retailers but are actually designed to steal your credit card numbers. Even QR code scams are a thing now—scammers place stickers over real QR codes in stores to hijack payments or collect gift card data.

Gift card balance theft is also becoming prevalent. Cybercriminals use bots to test number combinations and drain funds once they find an active card. So yeah—security is a real issue.

How to Protect Your Gift Card Codes Online

The good news? There are simple steps you can take to protect yourself. First, never share your card codes or PINs over email, text, or phone unless you’re 100% sure of the recipient. Retailers will never ask for them this way.

Always purchase gift cards from reputable sources, such as official websites, verified third-party sellers, or physical stores. Avoid shady sellers on social media or classifieds.

Register your gift cards online (if the retailer allows) for extra safety. This can help you track balances, recover funds, and sometimes block suspicious activity. And if your card was a gift, spend it quickly.

8. Gift Cards Can Now Be Used for Subscriptions and Services.

Popular Subscription Models That Accept Gift Cards

In 2025, gift cards aren’t just for shopping anymore; they’re a ticket to your favourite services. From streaming platforms to fitness apps, an increasing number of companies are accepting gift cards as a payment method for subscriptions. Netflix, Spotify, Disney+, and Apple Services all support this. You can now binge your favourite shows or jam to playlists, all paid for with a card someone gifted you.

Even niche subscription services have jumped on the bandwagon. Think meal kits like HelloFresh, meditation apps like Calm, or cloud storage like Google One. It’s the ultimate utility gift, combining entertainment, convenience, and wellness all in one.

Entertainment, Software, and Even Streaming Services

Tech services are another primary sector where gift cards are being used. Microsoft, PlayStation, and Steam offer game credits, software subscriptions, and add-ons. Adobe, Zoom, and Canva now accept gift cards for creative and business tools.

This opens up creative gifting options for freelancers, students, gamers, and remote workers alike. Whether it’s for leisure or productivity, you can now give a subscription that adds real value to someone’s daily life.

9. Eco-Friendly Gift Cards Are on the Rise.

Biodegradable and Digital Options

With the world more eco-conscious than ever, gift cards are evolving to reflect this shift. In 2025, there’s a significant shift toward sustainability. Retailers are phasing out plastic cards in favour of biodegradable materials and fully digital formats. Cards made from recycled paper, corn-based plastic, or bamboo pulp are not only functional but also send a message of environmental care.

Digital-only cards are, of course, the most sustainable. No waste, no printing, and no transport emissions. Plus, they’re easier to send and track.

This trend is being driven by consumer demand. Buyers want to feel good about what they give, including minimising their carbon footprint. Expect to see more eco-labelling and “green” gift card options in the future.

Brands Leading the Sustainability Charge

Big players like Apple, Patagonia, and Starbucks are leading the charge. Apple now prints gift cards on fully recycled paper, and Patagonia offers digital-only options that align with its brand ethos. Even luxury brands are reevaluating their packaging and materials to align with their sustainability goals.

Some companies even let you donate a portion of your card’s value to eco-charities. It’s a slight shift that reflects a broader cultural movement toward ethical and responsible consumerism.

10. Corporate Use of Gift Cards Is on the Rise

Constantly seeking ways to reward employees and boost morale, and in 2025, gift cards are expected to. Employee Rewards and Recognition Companies are continually innovative, and in 2025, gift cards are expected to become the go-to solution.

HR teams can now access bulk purchase platforms, automation tools, and reward tracking systems. Whether it’s for hitting KPIs, work anniversaries, or holiday bonuses, gift cards are a versatile part of corporate wellness strategies.

Client Gifting Strategies That Work

Gift cards also play a significant role in client relationships. Sending a thoughtful gift card to a client for a referral, milestone, or simply as a holiday gesture goes a long way. It’s less risky than branded swag (which may not be used) and more impactful than generic corporate emails.

Companies are even creating branded e-gift card experiences—complete with custom visuals, messages, and choices—so recipients feel valued. With business competition higher than ever, the humble gift card is proving to be a powerful tool for connection and loyalty.

Conclusion: Embracing the Evolution of Gift Cards

Gift cards have come a long way from being impersonal, plastic rectangles. In 2025, they’re significant, secure, customisable, eco-friendly, and deeply woven into both our personal and professional lives. Whether you’re giving one, receiving one, or cashing in on a great deal, gift cards are here to stay and will continue to get better from here.

They’re not just a backup gift anymore. They’re thoughtful, flexible, and downright essential in today’s fast-paced, digital world. As long as you know how to use them wisely, gift cards can be one of the most powerful tools in your gifting (and spending) arsenal.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs About Gift Cards

What’s the best way to keep track of multiple gift cards?

Use digital wallet apps like Apple Wallet, Google Pay, or specialised apps like Gyft or Apex Network. They store balances and expiration dates and can even send reminders.

Are digital gift cards safer than physical ones?

Yes. Digital cards are more complicated to lose and more straightforward to protect with passwords, two-factor authentication, and email tracking.

Can I get a refund for an unused gift card?

Generally, no. However, some states have laws requiring refunds for small balances, and some retailers offer exchanges or refunds under specific conditions.

What happens if I lose my digital gift card email?

Contact the retailer’s support with purchase details. Many will resend the card if you can prove ownership.

How can businesses benefit from using gift cards?

Gift cards boost customer loyalty, increase sales, and improve brand recognition. They’re also cost-effective tools for marketing and employee engagement.