Digital vs. Physical Gift Cards: Choosing the Right Format for Your Corporate Program

Gift cards have become a cornerstone of modern corporate rewards, employee recognition, and client appreciation programs. As organizations look to maximize engagement and streamline operations, the question arises: should you choose digital or physical gift cards for your corporate program? The answer depends on your goals, audience, and the experience you want to deliver.

In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each format, offer a practical decision framework, and introduce Assembly’s soon-to-launch gift card program designed to make corporate gifting effortless and impactful.

The Rise of Corporate Gift Cards

Gift cards are popular for a reason: they’re flexible, universally appreciated, and easy to distribute. As remote and hybrid work models become the norm, digital solutions are gaining traction, but physical cards still hold a special place for certain occasions. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each format is key to building a successful rewards program.

Digital Gift Cards: Fast, Flexible, and Scalable

What are digital gift cards?

Digital (or eGift) cards are virtual codes delivered via email, text, or within a platform. Recipients redeem them online or in-store, just like a physical card.

Advantages:

• Instant Delivery: Send rewards in seconds, perfect for remote teams or last-minute recognition.
• Cost-Effective: No printing or shipping costs, making it budget-friendly for large-scale programs.
• Easy Tracking: Real-time analytics and tracking simplify program management and compliance.
• Eco-Friendly: No plastic or paper waste.
• Customizable Experience: Platforms like Assembly allow you to add animations, personalized messages, and even kudo boards for a memorable moment of delight.
• Self-Service Options: With Assembly, you can send 1:1 or 1-to-many gifts for free, automate gifting, and create e-cards for occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and more.

Drawbacks:

• Less Tangible: Some recipients may miss the physical “unwrapping” experience.
• Digital Literacy Required: Not all employees or clients are comfortable with digital formats.
• Potential for Email Issues: Spam filters or incorrect addresses can delay delivery.

Physical Gift Cards: Tangible and Memorable

What are physical gift cards?

These are traditional, plastic or paper cards delivered by mail or in person, often presented in branded packaging.

Advantages:

• Tangible Value: The physical card feels more substantial and can make a bigger impression at in-person events.
• Personal Touch: Handing over a card can be more meaningful for milestones like retirements or anniversaries.
• No Tech Barriers: Ideal for recipients who prefer traditional rewards or lack digital access.

Drawbacks:

• Higher Costs: Printing, packaging, and shipping add up, especially for distributed teams.
• Slower Delivery: Physical cards can take days or weeks to arrive.
• Risk of Loss or Theft: Cards can be misplaced or stolen before use.
• Environmental Impact: Producing and shipping physical cards leaves a carbon footprint.

How to Choose the Right Format

Know Your Audience

Are your employees tech-savvy? Do they work remotely or on-site? For a distributed, digital-first workforce, eGift cards are often the best fit. For traditional or in-person teams, physical cards may resonate more.

Consider the Occasion

Milestone events (retirement, anniversaries) may call for a tangible card, while everyday recognition (thank you, congrats) is perfect for digital delivery.

Budget and Logistics

Digital cards save on costs and time. Physical cards require more planning and budget for production and shipping.

Brand Experience

Digital platforms like Assembly let you create branded, animated experiences and even allow recipients to send a thank you back, adding a layer of engagement that physical cards can’t match.

Flexibility

With Assembly, you can offer both formats, letting recipients choose their preference for maximum satisfaction.

Assembly’s New Gift Card Program: Effortless, Engaging, and Free to Start

Assembly’s new gift card program is designed to make corporate gifting simple, delightful, and accessible for any organization. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Free to Sign Up: The first tier is free and included in all paid Assembly plans.
• Self-Service Gifting: Send 1:1 or 1-to-many gifts and cards at no cost. Recipients can receive via text, email, or within the Assembly platform.
• Automated Gifting: For company-wide automation, talk to Assembly’s sales team.
• E-Cards & Kudo Boards: Create customizable, animated e-cards for any occasion—thank you, retirement, birthday, anniversary, marriage, and more.
• Flexible Gifting Options: Send money for the full catalog, specific categories, or curated rewards. Choose from gift cards, swag, or personalized experiences.
• Delightful Receiving Experience: Recipients enjoy animated moments and can easily send a thank you back to the sender.
• No Hidden Fees: Enjoy robust gifting features without extra costs.

Ready to see how Assembly can transform your corporate gifting? Schedule a demo with Assembly today!

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