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The Ultimate Guide to the B2B Gift Card Market in Iceland

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

GENERAL FACTS ON

Iceland

385.000

Population

Reykjavík

Capital

Icelandic

Official language

Icelandic króna

Currency

National holidays

First Day of Summer, 17th June (Independence Day), First Monday in August (Commerce Day)

Iceland gift card market size

Current size of the B2B gift card market: No exact data is known about the size of the local B2B gift card market. However, it is feasible to assume that as in other economic areas, the development of the Icelandic gift card market follows trends observed in other Nordic countries. Thus, the gift card market can be expected to continue a steady growth, especially in digital gifting solutions and integration into corporate gifting programmes.  

Growth trends over the past few years: Iceland is among the leading countries in the world in digital services. As citizens living on an island 400 km away from the nearest country, the need to stay connected is evident. This high level of digitalisation in all areas of the public life has given way to a thriving e-commerce sector, in turn boosting digital gift card sales. Many major retailers serving Iceland are international, but local businesses also play a key role in the retail market.  

Predictions for the future: It is likely that the Icelandic market will continue to follow its Nordic neighbours in accelerating digital transformation and incorporating gift cards into digital wallets, corporate gifting programmes, and special actions in retail. While not a member of the European Union, Iceland profits from the European Economic Area, attracting many companies from the continental region to expand their services to the island, a number that is poised to rise in the future.  

Country gift card market size

Iceland gifting traditions

  • Cultural Composition: Iceland is a Nordic country with strong ties to the ancient Vikings, a heritage that most Icelanders are proud of and keep alive through customs and the Icelandic language. 


  • Religion: While Iceland has a Lutheran state church, influencing many occasions celebrated across the year, religious diversity is growing. Many Icelanders also pay attention to Norse traditions and secular beliefs and uphold their rich folklore.  


  • Special Occasions: There are a number of special days in Iceland, celebrating a range of occasions. Two of these are Bóndadagur (Husband’s Day) and Konudagur (Wife’s Day), which are days to celebrate one’s spouse with a gift and a meal. 


  • Celebrating Together: As in many western countries, celebratory occasions that are marked with the tradition of gift giving include weddings, birthdays, baptisms, and Christmas. 


  • Jólabókaflóðið: This Icelandic word, translating to “Christmas Book Flood” is a unique and cherished tradition in Iceland, celebrated throughout December. It revolves around giving and receiving new books, often accompanied by delicious treats. Afterwards, Christmas Eve is spent with one’s family, reading and sharing stories. 


  • Gift Giving: Visitors are often invited into homes, especially if on business, and bringing a gift for the host is a norm. If wanting to give flowers, these should be sent in advance. 

     

  • Corporate Culture: Icelanders like to mix business with pleasure, preferring to establish a friendly relationship with their business partners. Business dinners are the most common form of entertainment. 


  • Gifts in Business: Apart from showing gratitude for invitations, gift-giving between business partners is relatively uncommon and usually restricted to Christmas or the new year, as Iceland upholds strict anti-corruption policies.  

Gift card regulations in Iceland

Here are some general points about gift card regulations in Iceland as of September 2024: 


  • Sellers are prohibited from imposing hidden fees 

  • Sellers are obligated to provide clear information about their terms and conditions 

  • Expiry dates for gift cards have to be clearly stated and communicated to the buyer 

  • The provider is not obligated to honour gift cards beyond their expiry date  

  • If gift cards are stolen or lost, the provider does not need to reimburse the customer 

  • Consumers are protected by the Consumer Rights Act  

It's important to note that regulations may change, so always check the latest guidelines with Iceland'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 Iceland, ensure you read the issuer's terms and conditions and consult with legal experts if necessary

Popular gift cards in Iceland

Popular gift card brands
  • Boozt: Boozt is known for its wide selection of exclusive brands which makes it the perfect online shopping destination for all fashion lovers 


  • HotelsGift: The world’s best hotel gift card offers over 750,000 hotels, villas & apartments to book with one gift card 


  • AirlineGift: A unique gift card offering an online travel booking selection of 450 airlines to book a flight to almost anywhere in the world  


  • BucketlistGift: This market leading range of over 800,000 curated and digital self-serve bucket list experiences includes wonders of the world, cultural experiences, and VIP access to global sporting events or music concerts  


  • RentacarGift: The world’s only multi-brand car rental gift card with a choice of 500 car rental brand providers 

 

Benefits of B2B gifting in Iceland

  1. Strengthen the Saga: Corporate gifting in Iceland allows companies to forge stronger, lasting relationships with local partners and clients. In a business culture where trust and long-term connections are valued, personalised gifts can help enhance these bonds, creating a sense of loyalty mirroring the values of Icelandic hospitality. However, Iceland’s strong business ethics discourage gifts that could be perceived as influencing decisions. 


  2. Stand Out in the Land of Fire and Ice: Iceland is a small but competitive market, and thoughtful gifting is a way to differentiate your brand. Unique, high-quality gifts that reflect Iceland’s nature, culture, or design ethos can make a lasting impression, helping your company stay memorable in the minds of your partners or customers. 


  3. Boost Morale in the Midnight Sun: For companies operating in Iceland, corporate gifts can boost internal morale, especially during the long winters or as a celebration of achievements. This can increase employee engagement and satisfaction, which is particularly valued in Iceland’s tight-knit and environmentally conscious workforce. 


  4. Celebrate Sustainability with Style: Iceland prides itself on sustainability, and eco-friendly corporate gifts can align with these values. Choosing gifts that reflect Iceland’s environmental consciousness can resonate deeply with local partners who prioritise green business practices. 

The Global Gift Card 

Want to strengthen professional relationships in Iceland’s business world? A gift to mark Christmas or a successful collaboration is a subtle but appreciated gesture. With GoGift, your professional appreciation is delivered with clarity and charm.

Physical and digital versions of The Global Gift Card
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