The Ultimate Guide to Custom Gift Card Printing for Businesses

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Introduction

In today’s competitive market, custom printed gift cards are more than just a convenient payment method — they’re a powerful branding tool. Whether you’re a retail chain, salon, spa, restaurant, or corporate brand, offering gift cards with your logo and design is a smart way to drive revenue, boost brand visibility, and retain customers.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about gift card printing for your business — from materials and design to fulfillment options and best use cases.

Why Use Custom Printed Gift Cards?

Physical gift cards still outperform digital alternatives in key areas:

  • Impulse purchases: Customers often buy gift cards while shopping in-store.

  • Brand presence: Tangible cards keep your brand top of mind.

  • Upsell potential: Gift card users tend to spend more than the card’s value.

  • Giftability: Customers prefer physical cards for special occasions.

When professionally printed, gift cards also double as mini brand ambassadors. They carry your logo, colours, and tone — often for weeks or months before they’re redeemed.

Printed Gift Cards

Common Industries That Benefit From Gift Cards

Retailers:
Ideal for seasonal promotions, customer loyalty, and last-minute gifts.

Salons & Spas:
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or corporate gifting. Cards can include service bundles.

Restaurants & Cafes:
Drives repeat visits and is easy to cross-sell with meal deals.

Gyms & Wellness Studios:
A low-pressure way to introduce new members or gift sessions.

Corporate Gifting & Rewards:
Used internally for staff rewards or externally as promotional incentives.

Materials & Card Types

Most business gift cards are printed on PVC plastic, similar to credit cards. Other options include:

  • Recycled PVC / RPET: For eco-conscious brands.

  • Paperboard Gift Cards: Often used for limited campaigns or disposable promotions.

  • Wooden Gift Cards: Premium look, niche use.

Card Features

  • Magnetic Stripe: For POS system compatibility.

  • Barcodes or QR Codes: For easy scanning and tracking.

  • Scratch-off Panels: Great for promotions and giveaways.

  • Signature Panel: If you want staff or customers to write on the card.

  • Embossing: For a luxury, high-end feel.

Printing Methods

1. Full-Colour Digital Printing

  • Ideal for vibrant logos, gradients, or full-background designs.

  • Best choice for small to medium batches.

2. Screen Printing

  • Cost-effective for simple, solid-colour designs.

  • Great for high-volume runs.

3. Foil Stamping

  • Adds gold, silver, or holographic effects.

  • Excellent for premium branding.

4. Spot UV

  • Highlights certain elements like logos or text with a glossy finish.

Gift Card Packaging Options

Don’t underestimate the power of presentation. Pairing your cards with well-designed packaging enhances the gift experience.

Popular add-ons include:

  • Card holders with space for a personal message

  • Custom envelopes with your branding

  • Display stands for in-store promotions

  • Sleeves and wallets for protection and presentation

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