Gift card schemes 'can boost business'

Gift card schemes can have a positive impact on small businesses, according to the Voucher Association (VA).

VA director general Andrew Johnson says that enabling customers to use gift cards for purchases can be "relatively cost-effective to implement".

"Generally you will find that small businesses, even with only one, two or three branches, are using gift cards to drive future business," he comments.

Mr Johnson adds that even those with just an online business could consider selling "virtual vouchers".

According to a VA study released last year, the average load value of a card is £25, with around 30 per cent of people claiming to have purchased a gift card in the past.

The VA is Britain's main trade association representing those involved in the coucher and gift card markets.