10-22-2008, 10:08 AM
Quote:Gift Card Predictions 2008
* Overall, consumers will spend about 5% less on gift cards in Holiday 2008 compared to last year
* Consumers will shift spending towards more practical gift cards - gas, groceries and restaurants
* Restaurant cards are expected to outsell other categories
* Most desired by gift recipients will continue to be pre-paid bank cards like Visa, American Express and Master Card, as they were in 07
* 24% of consumers plan to increase spending on gift cards over last year, teenage and post-college shoppers are most likely to spend more
* 13-24 year olds will proportionately spend more on gift cards (least discretionary income) and will receive about 40% of all gift cards
* Approximately 50% would consider purchasing a gift card from a retailer if it comes with an additional coupon/discount for them
* Gift card sales through grocery, drug stores, banks and other outside locations is expected to grow 30% over last year
full article: http://www.getelastic.com/holiday-gift-cards-200/