The most common gift card solutions can also be the simplest – fixed or customer-determined dollar values on electronic cards featuring an eye-catching design. However, a versatile gift card system allows you to implement a number of different programs to help grow business, retain customers, and learn information about how customers spend their money.

Among the most prominent gift card solutions is the loyalty card. Loyalty programs reward customers for their patronage, whether they are frequent or occasional shoppers. Using a “points for dollars” system, customers automatically accumulate credits on a gift card that can be redeemed for future purchases. This is very similar to how frequent flyer miles work on a credit card.

Businesses like supermarkets and pharmacies that serve the same customers several times per month can offer a membership card as part of their gift card solutions. Customers receive this free card by completing a simple application. In return, they get exclusive discounts on certain items in the store. Each time a card is scanned, the database tracks what items were sold and which sale items customers bought.

You can even set up gift card solutions to issue merchandise credit for returned items. Not only does this keep customer money in-house, but it also gives shoppers a physical marketing tool with your brand on it. Next time the customer needs to make a purchase, he’ll return to your business to use the value on the card – and perhaps more.

Some businesses incorporate gift card solutions into all of their marketing and advertising efforts. They create thousands of free gift cards in small denominations – usually $1 to $3 each – and then send them to customers via direct mail or hand them out in store. Unlike printed coupons, these cards are redeemed at a higher rate and allow you to take advantage of another branding opportunity.

To get a more in-depth understanding of how gift card solutions can help your business, read the BuyerZone Gift Card Systems Buyer’s Guide.