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The Ultimate Guide to the B2B Gift Card Market in Canada

Discover the latest trends, top brands, and insights into the B2B gift card industry in Canada

GENERAL FACTS ON

Canada

38.25M

Population

Ottawa

Capital

English/French

Official language

Canadian Dollar

Currency

National holidays

New Year - January 1st Good Friday - April 7th Easter Monday - April 1st Victoria Day - May 20th Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day - June 24th Canada Day - July 1st Civic Holiday - August 5th Labour Day - September 2nd Christmas Day - December 25th Boxing Day - December 26th

Canada gift card market size

The gift card scene in Canada is booming! From 2018 to 2022, it zoomed ahead with a 7% growth each year. And guess what? This isn't slowing down anytime soon. From 2023 to 2027, we're expecting it to keep growing at a cool 5.1% every year. By 2027, we'll be looking at a whopping $9.1 billion market, jumping up from $7.1 billion in 2022. Canada's gift card market is definitely one to watch!

Canada's e-commerce market has surged due to its digital population, with early 2022 sales at about three billion CAD and 29 million Canadians expected to shop online by year-end. Revenue is projected to double to over 90 billion USD by 2025. U.S. giants like Amazon dominate, and consumers prioritize online shopping for convenience, with high shipping and tech expectations, particularly in electronics and fashion.

Market forecasts suggest significant growth in Canada's e-commerce industry, particularly in the online food segment, as more retailers and consumers embrace e-commerce.

Country gift card market size

Canada gifting traditions

When are gifts most commonly exchanged?


Amongst other occasions, Canadians will exchange gifts for:

  • Birthdays

  • Weddings and anniversaries

  • Retirement parties

  • Formal events

  • Christmas and thanksgiving


Gift Etiquette in Canada: Dos and Don'ts


Do’s:

  • Bring chocolates, flowers, or personalized small gifts to casual gatherings with acquaintances.


  • Choose premium wine for Christmas or wedding gifts, and opt for champagne for corporate occasions.


  • Recipients have the flexibility to open gifts at their convenience.



Don'ts:

  • Avoid giving cash as a gift, regardless of your relationship with the recipient.


  • Skip gifting red roses, as they convey romantic intentions in Canada.


  • Be cautious with white lilies, typically reserved for funerals.


  • Strictly refrain from bribery through expensive gifts in the Canadian corporate world.


  • Limit the practice of frequent gift-giving in Canada.


Gift card regulations in Canada

Gift card regulation in Canada is subject to various laws and regulations to protect consumers and ensure transparency in the gifting industry.


Validity Period: Gift cards usually don't expire. Depending on your province or territory, some gift cards, like promotional or service-specific ones, may have expiry dates, unlike most gift cards that usually don't.


Redemption Process: Typically, gift card redemption occurs either online through the issuing retailer or service provider's website or in their physical stores. 


Fee Restrictions: Gift cards are generally fee-free, but some areas may charge for lost card replacements, customizations, activations, or mall card maintenance.


Security: Lost or stolen cards policies can vary depending on the issuer. 

It's important to note that regulations may change, so always check the latest guidelines with Canada's government or appropriate regulatory bodies. Moreover, the specifics and prerequisites might differ based on the gift card type, its provider, and other considerations.

If you're considering buying or utilizing gift cards in Canada, ensure you read the issuer's terms and conditions and consult with legal experts if necessary.

Popular gift cards in Canada

Popular gift card brands

In the bustling world of gift cards in Canada, it's a pleasure to introduce some of the brands that have made a mark in their respective industries.


Amazon: Available for purchase anywhere, offers universal usage for Amazon products, with added benefits when obtained directly from Amazon, regardless of Prime membership.


Walmart: Walmart offers versatile gift cards usable for various purchases in-store and online. They're perfect for flexible gifting and available at many retailers in physical and digital formats. 


Esso and Mobil: Esso and Mobil gift cards are versatile, redeemable for gas and in-store items, but only at their respective retailers. 


Starbucks: Starbucks is renowned for its quality coffee, making it a trendy choice for gift cards due to its popularity and slightly higher prices. 


Chapters & Indigo: Key players in Canada's retail book market, known for their extensive range of books, gifts, and lifestyle products.


WestJet: Travel can be expensive, so consider a Westjet gift card to help someone reach their destination, whether for work or leisure.


Home Depot: Home Depot's wide array of products makes it an ideal gift for nearly anyone on your list. Whether it's for a housewarming, Christmas, or a DIY enthusiast, this gift card fits the bill.


Cineplex: Consider giving a Cineplex gift card to the movie enthusiasts in your circle, including your children. These cards are versatile and can be used for movies or snacks at any Cineplex venue.


Best Buy: The ideal choice for tech enthusiasts, as Best Buy offers the latest tech gadgets like headphones, cameras, and smartwatches, as well as a variety of home tech items including fans, dishwashers, and vacuums.


Rexall: Rexall gift cards provide recipients the opportunity to purchase daily essentials like beauty and skincare products.

Benefits of B2B gifting in Canada

B2B gifting is a powerful tool in Canada's corporate culture, offering numerous benefits when done right. Here's how it works wonders:


Fosters Professional Relationships: Gifting in a B2B context is all about cementing and enhancing professional relationships. By choosing gifts that are formal and professional, you're not just giving a token item; you're showing respect and appreciation for the business relationship. It's a way to say "we value this partnership" without crossing the line into personal territory.


Enhances Brand Image: Opting for compact, high-value corporate gifts reflects well on your brand. It shows that you value quality and practicality, which are key traits in the business world. Whether it's a sleek tech gadget or elegant office accessory, a well-thought-out gift can elevate your company's image in the eyes of your business partners.


Encourages Ethical Practices: Adhering to ethical gifting practices is vital. In Canada, where corporate ethics are taken seriously, a gift should never be misconstrued as a bribe. This approach not only aligns with legal standards but also builds trust. By gifting responsibly, you're demonstrating that your business values integrity and transparency.


Boosts Morale and Motivation: When employees receive gifts from business partners, it can significantly boost morale. It's a tangible way of showing appreciation for their hard work and contribution, which in turn can motivate them to maintain high performance standards.


Creates Memorable Experiences: A well-chosen corporate gift can create a lasting impression. It's not just about the item itself, but the message it conveys – one of gratitude, respect, and mutual benefit.


In the Canadian B2B gifting landscape, striking the right balance between professionalism, practicality, and ethics can turn gifting into a strategic asset. It's not just about giving something; it's about reinforcing valuable business relationships and upholding your brand's reputation.

The Global Gift Card 

The Global Gift Card by GoGift has revolutionized gifting, offering a tailored solution to businesses across industries. It provides access to the world's largest brand selection, making it easy to connect with people worldwide. This hassle-free, highly customizable platform boasts an extensive range of gift card choices, benefitting global businesses in multiple ways.

Physical and digital versions of The Global Gift Card
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