Consumer research and a number of studies on workplace recognition show that gift cards remain one of the most popular methods of rewarding top performers. But the high point this year may very well be the nod to gift cards’ popularity in a “Saturday Night Live” spoof of a drab office Christmas Party gone wild. The shy girl from payroll begins “sort of dancing,” Carol from new media launches into the Christmas tree head-first and, “Oh, Snap! The boss is making it rain gift cards!”
The research on gift cards may not be as funny, but it can’t be ignored:
CashStar, a provider of electronic gifting platforms, polled 1,100 U.S. consumers and found that 55 percent prefer receiving gift cards vs. physical gifts. That number jumps to 61 percent for 35- to 44-year-olds.
An Incentive Federation study of merchandise and travel incentive users found that gift cards have become the number one award of choice for sales incentives.
A 2014 survey by Hallmark Business Connections shows that 96 percent of recipients agreed that gift cards are the best redemption option. “We’ve seen this number inch up slightly over the past several years, proving customer demand for gift cards remains strong,” says Nick Balestino, Manager of Award Partnerships at Hallmark Business Connections.
We feature some popular gift card suppliers here, and there are additional gift card suppliers in our Top Performers review that begins on page 46.
The shoe fits
Foot Locker offers a broad selection of footwear and apparel. The Foot Locker Gift Card is redeemable at Foot Locker, Lady Foot Locker and Kids Foot Locker online and in stores in the U.S and Canada. No expiration fees. For more information, call 800-690-5996 or email dborst@patriotllc.com or visit footlockergiftcard.com.
What they really want
With an Applebee’s Gift Card, rewarding people has never been easier. Applebee’s gift cards are convenient, easy to order, available in plastic and digital formats, and can be used at nearly 1,900 U.S. and Canada locations. For more information, contact Applebee’s Gift Card Fulfillment at 866-812-8543 or email gift.cards@applebees.com or visit https://storefront.wgiftcard.com/applebees.
Pamper your performers
Give a Spafinder Wellness 365 gift card, and help your customers and employees lead healthier, more active lives. Accepted at 20,000-plus locations around the globe, Spafinder gift cards are the world’s best passport to massage, facials, yoga and more. Call 888-226-9924, visit spafinder.com or email corporategiftsales@spafinder.com.
Spice up your incentives
When you need to reward a job well done, incent your employees or retain loyal customers, the Buffalo Wild Wings gift card is the ultimate solution. Redeemable at 1,000-plus locations nationwide. For details, visit buffalowildwings.com or email bwwbulk@buffalowildwings.com.
To your employees’ health
Wellness in the workplace continues to be a priority nationwide. A CVS/pharmacy gift card is always a great choice. With more than 7,800 locations from coast to coast, CVS/pharmacy is the most convenient place to get prescription medications and health care products. Plus, it provides a huge selection of popular beauty and personal care brands, as well as exclusive brands you won’t find anywhere else. For details, contact Deborah Merkin of GiftCard Partners (giftcardpartners.com) at 781-237-1742 or email dmerkin@giftcardpartners.com.
Great brands at great prices
Share your love for amazing style, incredible savings and easy shopping – all wrapped up into one gift card! With a Kohl’s gift card, your recipients get more for every dollar while saving on great brands. Plus, gift cards are accepted in store and online, and they never expire! Call 800-653-1774, visit Kohls.com/CorpGiftCard or email Corp.giftcards@kohls.com.
For outdoor enthusiasts
Let Bass Pro Shops® be your guide to building an effective incentive program that’s uniquely designed to fit your business needs. Bass Pro Shops can provide creative solutions that motivate customers and employees, drive sales and improve performance. For details, call 800-951-1000 or visit corporateincentives@basspro.com.
Flowers and more
1-800 Flowers gift cards are now redeemable across all of their family of brands to always send the perfect gift for every occasion. Flowers, plants, cookies, popcorn, chocolate, fruit, gift baskets and more. For details, contact Chris Adamo at 305-812-2157 or email cadamo@1800flowers.com, or visit 1800flowers.com.
