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The Ultimate Guide to the B2B Gift Card Market in United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland

Discover the latest trends, top brands, and insights into the B2B gift card industry in United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland

GENERAL FACTS ON

United Kingdom

68.3M

Population

London

Capital

English

Official language

Pound sterling

Currency

National holidays

New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, May Day, Spring Bank Holiday, Summer Bank Holiday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day.

United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland gift card market size

The gift card market in the United Kingdom recorded a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.3% during 2020-2024. Experts anticipate further growth, with a projected CAGR of 7.3% between 2024-2028. The market is expected to increase to US$ 15.74 billion in 2029, from a value of USD 10.96 billion in 2024.

Gift cards have grown in popularity across the UK due to their convenience and flexibility. The rise of e-commerce and digital wallets, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, has fuelled demand for digital gift cards, making them easier to buy, send, and redeem online.


UK retailers have expanded their offerings beyond traditional high-street shopping vouchers to include experience-based gift cards. The corporate sector has also embraced gift cards as a key tool for employee rewards and customer incentives, with companies using them for workplace recognition schemes, sales promotions, and client retention. 

The demand for digital gift cards and e-commerce in general does not seem to stall, and to the contrary, only keeps rising. There are more retailers entering the gift card market that also offer digital solutions. Each of these offers are increasingly of varying nature to offer consumers the best gifting solution. Lastly, it is very likely for businesses to tie gift card rewarding with loyalty programs.

Country gift card market size

United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland gifting traditions

  • In the UK, gift-giving is part of everyday life, from Christmas to ‘Thank You’ gifts for hosts. In these exchanges, gifts serve as discreet messengers of appreciation and connection, deepening relationships with simple gestures of kindness. 


  • When it comes to giving gifts, manners are important. Saying “thank you” and knowing the appropriate time to give flowers or gifts is important. There’s an unspoken code of conduct. 


  • In the dynamic landscape of British business, B2B gifting serves as more than just a pleasant gesture – it’s a strategic tool for forging connections and closing deals. 

Gift card regulations in United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland

Here are some general points about gift card regulations in the UK (Regulations may have changed from 2015, it’s always advised to stay informed on the latest rules from the UK government and any relevant authorities): 


  • It is prohibited to issue gift cards with expiry dates shorter than 6 months. And any gift card or voucher with an expiry date must clearly state it on the card or voucher itself. 


  • If there are any additional fees, these should be transparently disclosed to consumers before purchasing the gift card or voucher. 


  • Consumers have the right to get a refund for a faulty or misrepresented gift card. 


  • In the unfortunate event of a stolen or lost gift card, depending on the issuer, the customer could get a replacement card, but the issuer is not obligated to do this by law. 

It's important to note that regulations may change, so always check the latest guidelines with United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland'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 United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland, ensure you read the issuer's terms and conditions and consult with legal experts if necessary

Popular gift cards in United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland

Popular gift card brands
  • Apple: The tech titan delights with its iconic products like the iPhone and MacBook, renowned for its minimalistic design and cutting-edge innovations. 


  • Boots: The cornerstone of UK’s health and beauty industry, satisfying every customer's needs with a diverse range of cosmetics, toiletries, and pharmaceutical products, backed by expert advice and a robust loyalty program. 


  • Cadbury: The confectionery king of the UK, crafting irresistible chocolate delights with a 200-year history of unwavering dedication to quality and taste. 


  • GAME: The ultimate destination for gamers in the UK, offering the latest video games, display figures, and board games, ensuring the best deals. 


  •  John Lewis: A British retail staple, John Lewis is synonym with quality and elegance, offering a wide range of products beyond clothing, such as home decor and electronics.  


  • Lego: Sparking imagination and creativity in children and adults alike with its historic building blocks, inspiring play, learning, and storytelling across generations.

     

  • Marks & Spencer: Guaranteeing quality in clothing, homeware, and food, with a commitment to sustainability and community engagement, ensuring every purchase makes a stylish and impactful statement. 


  • Nike: Empowering athletes and enthusiasts with cutting-edge designs and innovative technologies, promoting inclusivity and active lifestyles, inspiring greatness on and off the field. 


  • Sony: Captivating audiences with groundbreaking innovations in electronics and entertainment, delivering unforgettable moments of amazement and fulfillment through quality, craftsmanship, and creativity. 


  • Tesco: The UK’s largest supermarket chain, offering convenience, affordability, and choice in groceries and household essentials, while pioneering initiatives in sustainability and social responsibility. 

Benefits of B2B gifting in United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland

B2B gifting in the UK presents numerous advantages for businesses. It serves as a powerful tool for strengthening business relationships by demonstrating appreciation and thoughtfulness. Additionally, it plays a key role in recognizing and rewarding employees, thereby fostering a positive work culture and boosting morale.  


Furthermore, B2B gifting offers valuable promotional and marketing opportunities, enabling businesses to increase brand visibility and attract new clients. Finally, depending on UK tax regulations, strategic gifting may be subject to tax. Businesses should consult with a tax advisor to understand potential benefits and limitations. 

The Global Gift Card 

Want to build rapport in the UK’s diplomatic and structured business landscape? Gifting at Christmas or to recognize partnership achievements shows thoughtfulness without overstatement. With GoGift, you deliver appreciation with just the right British balance.

Physical and digital versions of The Global Gift Card
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