Gift cards are a popular and easy way to give gifts. They let recipients pick their own gifts, which makes them happy and reduces returns.
The trend of using both digital and physical gift cards is growing worldwide, including in Pakistan.
This article explores the gift card market in Pakistan, looking at the types of gift cards available, how people use them, and how popular they are among Pakistanis.
Does Pakistan Have Gift Cards?
Yes, Pakistan offers gift cards, which are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and flexibility. These cards are well-liked across various sectors, especially as online shopping and digital payments grow.
In Pakistan, you can find gift cards in many industries. Retail stores offer them for purchases like clothes, electronics, and home items. Online shops also provide digital gift cards, making it easy to send shopping credits to others.
Additionally, many cafes and restaurants have gift cards, often used for special events and gifts. This variety makes gift cards a flexible and appealing choice for many.
Top Popular Gift Cards Available in Pakistan
1. Steam Gift Card
Steam gift cards are very popular among gamers in Pakistan.
These cards let gamers add funds to their Steam Wallets, allowing them to buy games, downloadable content, and in-game items without needing a credit card.
This is convenient in a country where not everyone has access to international payment methods. Steam gift cards provide a secure and easy way for Pakistani gamers to enjoy the latest games.
2. iTunes Gift Cards
iTunes gift cards are favoured by Apple device users in Pakistan. These cards can be used to buy a variety of media content from the iTunes Store, including music, movies, TV shows, apps, and books.
For Apple users, these cards offer a convenient alternative to credit card purchases, making it easy to access a vast library of entertainment and productivity tools.
3. Amazon Gift Cards
Amazon gift cards are highly valued in Pakistan due to the rise of online shopping.
These cards allow users to shop from the extensive selection on Amazon, covering everything from books to household items and electronics.
For Pakistanis who shop on international platforms, Amazon gift cards provide a secure and simple payment method, avoiding the complications of international credit transactions.
4. Visa Gift Cards
Visa gift cards are versatile and widely accepted at various retail and online stores in Pakistan. These prepaid cards work like debit cards and can be used anywhere Visa is accepted.
They are especially useful for gifting when the recipient’s preferences are unsure, offering the freedom to choose from many outlets and services across the country.
Visa gift cards are a practical solution for everyday purchases, whether for shopping, dining, or other services.
How Gift Cards are Used in Pakistan
Gift cards are a significant part of personal and corporate gifting in Pakistan, valued for their flexibility and convenience. Here’s how they’re commonly used:
1. Personal Gifting
Gift cards are a popular choice for personal gifts, especially for weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries.
Gift cards are ideal when it’s hard to guess someone’s personal taste. They let recipients choose their own gifts, ensuring they get something they really want or need.
This helps avoid common issues like duplicate or unwanted gifts, making celebrations more enjoyable and gifts more meaningful.
2. Corporate Gifting
In the business world, companies often use gift cards as rewards or incentives for employees.
These can be given for achieving sales targets, as holiday bonuses, or as a thank you for your hard work.
Many see this as a more practical and appealing option than traditional gifts because employees can pick what they want.
3. Cultural Preferences
Gift cards are also integrated into the gifting traditions of various festivals and significant events, such as Eid, Diwali, and Christmas.
They are preferred for their convenience and the ability to avoid the risk of inappropriate gifts.
Additionally, during major sales events like Black Friday or Pakistan Day sales, people often give gift cards so the recipients can take advantage of discounted prices, increasing the gift’s value.
Challenges Associated with Using Gift Cards in Pakistan
While gift cards offer many advantages, their use in Pakistan comes with several challenges that can impact their convenience and security.
1. Limited Acceptance Outside Major Cities
A major challenge is the limited acceptance of gift cards outside of big cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
In smaller towns and rural areas, fewer retailers offer or accept gift cards, which can limit their usefulness for recipients not living in these urban centers.
2. Redemption Issues
Consumers sometimes face problems redeeming gift cards due to unclear terms and conditions or technical issues with card activation and processing.
This can cause frustration and lessen the gift card’s value.
3. Potential for Fraud
Fraud is a significant concern with gift cards. Scammers may duplicate cards or use stolen details to empty the card’s balance before it’s used by the rightful owner, leading to financial losses and decreased trust in this form of gifting.
Tips to Overcome Gift Card Challenges in Pakistan
Here are some tips to effectively manage these issues:
1. Research Before Purchase
Make sure the gift card you buy is widely accepted, particularly if the recipient lives outside a major city. Choose gift cards from well-known chains that have extensive geographical coverage.
2. Clear Understanding of Terms
Always read the terms and conditions of a gift card. Knowing about expiry dates, fees, and how to redeem the card can prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smoother experience for the recipient.
3. Purchase from Reputable Sources
Always buy gift cards directly from official retailers or authorized sellers to minimize fraud risks. Avoid third-party websites or unverified sellers.
4. Use Promptly
Encourage gift card recipients to use their cards quickly. This not only helps prevent issues related to expiration but also reduces the chances of fraud.
Read Also: Types of Gift Cards in Puerto Rico
Conclusion
Gift cards are a practical and convenient option for gifting in Pakistan. They allow recipients to choose their own gifts and ensure their satisfaction.
Although they are valued for their flexibility, there are challenges like limited acceptance outside major cities, issues with redemption, and the risk of fraud. These issues can be addressed by buying from reputable sources and understanding the terms and conditions.
Promoting the use of gift cards can modernize and improve the gift-giving experience throughout Pakistan, making it more enjoyable and practical for everyone.