Self-use gift cards hit a new high - and it's no surprise 📈
The GCVA’s latest data shows self-use gift card purchasing is at its highest since May 2020, with 8.7% of UK consumers choosing to buy gift cards for themselves in July 2025 – up from 7.1% in July 2024.
This supports what we explored in our latest whitepaper: that gift cards are increasingly being used as a financial tool, not just a gifting solution. Over half (53.4%) of self-use buyers said they did so to help with saving money – proving the role gift cards play in budgeting, planning, and managing everyday spending.
With cost-of-living pressures still weighing on many households, gift cards are becoming a go-to for shoppers who want to take control of their finances – something we’ve seen time and again across our platform.
Retail spending set to rise in 2025 - and gift cards are along for the ride 🛍️
According to the report, retail spending growth is forecast to improve to 2.8% in 2025, up from 1.5% in 2024. While inflation is part of the story, positive volume growth is back for the first time since 2021 – a sign that consumer confidence is slowly returning.
As spending picks up, we’re seeing gift cards continue to benefit. Multi-store gift cards, in particular, are gaining traction (up to 42.8% of gift card purchases in July 2025), offering flexibility at a time when shoppers want more choice and control.
Experience and leisure gift cards see major boost ✨
One of the standout findings in this month’s GCVA data is the strong performance of experience and leisure gift cards – covering everything from spa breaks and hotel stays to dining and travel.
Compared to July 2024, more consumers are choosing to gift (or self-gift) these types of cards, thanks to:
- A peak seasonal period for travel and leisure
- Increased availability of gift card options from regional and local businesses
- The growing popularity of digital wallets and subscriptions, especially in gaming and music, which also saw strong performance
This rise in experiential gifting reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour – one that we’ve seen mirrored across our network too. Today’s shoppers value memories over materials, and brands that can meet this demand through well-curated gift card offerings stand to gain the most.
Final thoughts 💡
This latest GCVA report underlines what we’ve long known: gift cards are evolving, and so are the people using them. From self-use to experiences, they’re no longer just for birthdays and holidays – they’re a smart, strategic part of everyday spending.
Want to learn more about how you can capitalise on these trends? Let’s talk.
