With retail venues having finally reopened their doors to the public, new Gift Card and Voucher Association (GCVA) research shows gift cards continue to be a key driver in encouraging shoppers back to the high streets.

According to a nationally representative survey of 2,000 UK shoppers conducted by the GCVA as part of its ‘Gift Back’ campaign, gift cards will encourage over three fifths (63%) of shoppers to get out and support the wide breadth of retail venues.

The retail sector is heavily relying on customers to return and support them on the road to financial recovery. GCVA’s research found 35% of shoppers feel more inclined to purchase gift cards for their favourite brands post-pandemic to help businesses get back on their feet following months of closure.

Specifically, the research shows shoppers intend to support local and independent stores post-Covid.

In fact, over 15% of consumers intend to shop more often at local high streets. Plus, one in eight shoppers is planning to visit close-by independent retailers. Gift cards play an integral role in encouraging customers back to shops. They also increase brand exposure and help expand customer bases. Keeping consumers loyal to physical stores is fundamental for their survival.

Commenting is Gail Cohen, director-general of the GCVA. “It has been extremely encouraging to see how motivated customers have been to get back out onto the high streets. It is a crucial time to be supporting our favourite businesses as they embark on a road to financial recovery after months out of action.

“Gift cards have played a vital role in reintroducing customers to their favourite brands and shops; whether it be returning to a firm favourite or experiencing a new brand. To know shoppers feel encouraged to return to the high street is reassuring to UK businesses, especially our independent shops, which are not supported by a global or national infrastructure.”

For more information on the GCVA and the research findings from the Gift Back report, please click here.