There was a time when gifting meant wrapping paper, ribbons, and hours spent in busy shops. But today the way we give (and receive) has changed - and digital gift cards are right at the heart of it.
We now live in the experience economy, where consumers value flexibility, personal choice, and instant gratification. And for retailers, airlines, and hospitality brands, this shift represents a huge opportunity.
Let’s explore how gifting has evolved - and why digital gift cards are the ultimate product for a lifestyle-driven audience.
Gifting has gone digital - and experimental
Today’s consumers are more intentional with their spending, seeking out gifts that feel personal, purposeful, and convenient. Whether it’s a last-minute birthday present, a thank-you after a trip, or a spontaneous gesture “just because,” digital gifting ticks all the right boxes:
🎯 Delivered instantly (or scheduled for the perfect moment)
🎨 Customisable and brandable
💻 Available across devices and platforms
🎁 Let the recipient choose something they really want
In short? It’s gifting that fits modern life - and lifestyle brands.
From products to possibilities
The beauty of a digital gift card is that it doesn’t just give someone a thing - it gives them choice, freedom, and the excitement of picking their own experience. That’s a powerful emotional connection to your brand.
For airlines and hotels in particular, this means creating gifting opportunities tied to real-life moments: city breaks, spa weekends, beach holidays, business travel upgrades. A digital gift card becomes more than a transaction - it becomes the start of a journey.
Self-use is on the rise
Here’s something you might not expect: not all gift card buyers are buying for others.
Self-use gift cards - where shoppers buy discounted or cashback-enabled gift cards for themselves - have seen a huge surge. Why? Because savvy consumers are now using them as a budgeting tool, a way to earn rewards, or just to streamline spending at their favourite brands.
This is especially relevant for brands in travel and hospitality. Frequent flyers or loyal guests can use self-purchased gift cards to take advantage of offers, budget for their next trip, or top up loyalty points. It’s an easy win for both customer and brand.
Gifting needs to be everywhere customers are
Whether it’s on your website, app, loyalty platform, or offered through employee rewards or corporate gifting - your digital gift card needs to be visible and accessible. In the experience economy, convenience is currency.
With Tillo, we make sure your gift card isn’t just sitting quietly in the footer of your site - it’s available across a global network of partners and platforms, connecting your brand with new audiences and new gifting moments.
Gift cards are no longer just a product - they're a channel
And like any strong channel, digital gift cards deserve strategy, optimisation, and growth.
That’s where Tillo comes in. We help airlines, hotels, and retail brands take gifting beyond the basics:
🚀 Launch and scale digital gift card sales across B2C and B2B
📊 Gain real-time insights into gifting behaviour
🎯 Reach high-value customers through our global network
🧩 Integrate gifting into loyalty, rewards, and corporate programs
Ready to grow in the experience economy
Digital gifting is no longer a “nice to have” - it’s an expectation. With Tillo, you can meet your customers where they are, offer more meaningful ways to connect, and drive growth in the process.
Let’s turn your gift card program into a strategic powerhouse. Get in touch to see how we can help.
