How will Gift Cards help my business this year?
Gift cards are beneficial to both the consumer and merchant for many reasons. A recent consumer survey conducted by BIGresearch in 2009, said that 52.2% (percent) of adults would like to receive a gift card this holiday season. Three years in row Gift Cards have been the most requested gift during the holidays. Consumers are telling you exactly what they want and gift cards are clearly the best options for businesses to accept in 2009 – 2010. Gift cards have become one of the most convenient and sought after items for consumers searching for the perfect gift. They are also great tools to increase customer loyalty and improve cash-flow, making them an ideal addition to your product offerings. Unlike traditional paper certificates, the balance on the card is automatically updated with each use, which eliminates the need to provide cash reimbursement for the remaining value of the card after a purchase. Gift cards can also be reloaded with additional value, making them an ideal tool to promote repeat shopping. Most merchant service providers offer some sort of Gift and Loyalty Card program so if your company currently accept credit cards contact your provider for more information. Typically gift cards cost merchants between $0.90 to $1.50 per card plus a design fee and some providers charge a set-up fee, it really depends on the order size. Give your customers a gift that keeps on giving a gift card with your brands, it may be one of the smartest decisions your company makes this year!Article By: Izaak J. Nason
Research By: BIGresearch
Article Date: 01/04/10
When you accept a high ticket credit card transaction over the phone make sure you get a signature from an invoice or the actual credit card receipt. By getting a signature from your customer it'll prevent unecessary chargebacks. You can do this by fax or scan it through email. It'll also save you money!