Gift cards have always been a versatile sales tool for brands - but digital wallets are transforming how they’re used. What used to be a physical card in someone’s purse is now a tap away on their phone, ready to spend anytime. And that simple change is driving more frequent use and higher repeat spend.
Our research shows 76% of mobile wallet users are more likely to use a gift card if it’s stored in their wallet. For brands, that’s a direct link between mobile wallet integration and customer spend.
Why mobile wallets matter for brands
- Frictionless redemption
Lost cards, forgotten email links, or complicated redemption steps kill conversion. Storing a gift card in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet eliminates these blockers, making it easier for customers to use - and more likely they’ll use it quickly.
- Instant access fuels impulse purchases
When the card is already loaded in the wallet, a customer can redeem it in seconds. This encourages spontaneous spending and keeps your brand top of mind.
- Better visibility, better results
A physical card can sit in a drawer for months. A digital wallet card is visible every time a user scrolls through their payment options, keeping your brand in their daily line of sight.
The link to repeat spend
Gift cards stored in digital wallets are redeemed faster - and faster redemption often means repeat purchases. When customers have a smooth first experience, they’re more inclined to reload or buy again. That’s especially true for self-use buyers, who make up 70% of U.S. consumers purchasing gift cards for themselves.
How to make the most of mobile wallet integration
- Promote the feature at purchase
Don’t assume customers will know they can add the card to their wallet. Prompt them during checkout or in the confirmation email.
- Incentivise wallet storage
Offer a small reward or bonus for adding the gift card to a wallet. Even a limited-time offer can create the habit.
- Pair with instant delivery
The impact is even greater when cards can be stored immediately after purchase. Instant delivery plus wallet storage creates a friction-free experience that customers love.
Example use cases for brands
- Quick-service restaurants: Encourage in-app ordering with wallet-stored gift cards.
- Retail chains: Tie digital gift cards to flash sales to prompt immediate redemption.
- Entertainment & events: Make last-minute purchases effortless for customers attending on the same day.
A simple tech shift with big ROI
Integrating mobile wallet functionality isn’t just a UX improvement - it’s a revenue driver. By reducing barriers to redemption, you make it easier for customers to shop, spend, and come back again. In a competitive retail environment, that convenience is often what tips the decision in your favour.
The takeaway:
Mobile wallet integration isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a powerful lever for increasing gift card usage and repeat spend. The easier you make it for customers to access and use their cards, the more they’ll choose your brand - again and again.
Download the full whitepaper - From Gifting to Gaining: How Gift Cards Have Become a Consumer Power Move - to explore the data and strategies behind the mobile wallet effect.
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