BarMechanic Johnny Creus’ Tips: Selling and Buying Gift Cards is Key to Holiday Hospitality

GIFT CARDS MAKE THE HOLIDAY BETTER FROM BOTH SIDES

The 2009 Hospitality season is nearly upon us. Weather you believe it starts around Thanksgiving or it has already started, those of us in the “Biz” are grateful for its arrival. One way to extend and fully take advantage of this season as a consumer and employer are Gift cards or Gift Certificates.

In the past, I would agree that giving a gift card as a present was an “easy-out” in gift giving. It requires less thought and it isn’t as personable. But oh, how my mind has changed. A $20 or $10 gift card to one of my favorite eateries or shops has become my favorite gifts.

If you think about it, giving gift cards as presents will not only affect the recipient, but the community and economy as a whole. It promotes spending and the business you brought it from. More cash flow into the local businesses benefits us all. Also, if you get your timing right, many businesses have gift card specials during this holiday season. So don’t be afraid or ashamed to give a gift card. It’s one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give this season.BarMechanic Johnny Creus