The Shocking Truth About Gift Cards: Why Prepaid Cards Are

Gift cards have long been a popular go-to. They are familiar, accessible, and feel like the perfect plug-and-play option for many companies looking to incentivize customers and staff alike. But are they really the best choice for your business goals?

Understanding the Basics: Gift Cards vs. Prepaid Cards

Both gift cards and prepaid cards serve as great tools for gifting, rewards, and incentives, but there are key differences in their functionality and usage.

Feature	Gift Card	Prepaid Cards
*Spending Freedom*	Limited to specific stores or groups	Universal; can be used anywhere
*Customization*	Basic; logo and colour	Extensive; can include full branding and design
*Security*	Minimal: usually no tracking	Activation, tracking, and replacement options
*Reloadable*	Generally no reloadable	Reloadable for ongoing programs

What You Don’t Know About Prepaid Cards

1. The Versatility of Prepaid Cards: A Gift Card with Power

Gift cards are typically tied to specific retailers or stores. You get a set value, and you can only spend it at that one store. But did you know that a prepaid card can also be used as a gift card? The major difference is that prepaid cards are branded with a card network like Visa^® or Mastercard^®, making them universal. This means they can be used anywhere that accepts these networks—both online and in-store.

2. From Gift Card to Reloadable Loyalty Card

Prepaid cards also come with the option to reload—something gift cards rarely offer. For businesses, this means you have a long-term, ongoing relationship with the cardholder. Instead of giving a one-off gift card, you can create a loyalty experience that is reloadable, making it easier to manage and track your rewards program.

3. Customizable and Personalized

Looking to send a branded card to show appreciation or create a custom gift for an exclusive promotion? Prepaid cards offer endless customization options that traditional gift cards cannot match. From personalized card art and embossing to custom card carriers, you can create a fully branded experience that strengthens your company’s identity and leaves a lasting impression on your recipients.

4. The Bottom Line: More Than Just a Gift

Prepaid cards are often dismissed as just another form of gift cards, but they offer so much more. By offering a reloadable option, they open up the door to flexible loyalty programs and customized gift options. Whether you are using them as simple gift cards or as part of a sophisticated rewards system, prepaid cards give you the freedom to choose, manage, and optimize how you give and receive rewards.

So next time you are thinking about handing out a gift card, consider the power of a prepaid card—because it is not just a one-time gift, it is a tool for creating lasting loyalty, enhancing customer satisfaction, and offering rewards that keep on giving.

At TruUniverse (Tru), we can help you create a customized prepaid card program tailored to your business needs. Contact our award-winning team if you would like more information on implementing your own program.