Everything You Need to Plan, Design & Launch
A physical gift card program can create new opportunities for restaurant sales, customer gifting, and repeat visits.
But a successful program requires more than ordering a stack of branded cards. You’ll need to consider how the cards function, how customers purchase them, and how they’re presented.
Here’s what to work through before launching.
Step 1: Confirm Your POS Compatibility
Before designing your cards, determine how your restaurant’s existing POS or gift card platform supports physical gift cards.
Some systems use magnetic stripes, while others support barcodes, QR codes, or unique card identifiers.
Ask your provider:
- Does the system support physical gift cards?
- What card format or encoding method is required?
- How are cards activated and redeemed?
- Can customers check remaining balances?
- Can gift cards be redeemed across multiple locations?
- Are there restrictions on card suppliers or specifications?
Important: Confirm technical requirements before production. Not every card type works with every system.
Step 2: Choose Your Card Design
Your gift card is a physical representation of your restaurant’s brand.
Consider your logo, colors, artwork, and the impression you want the card to create.
| Design Option | What It Offers |
|---|---|
| Standard Plastic Cards | Familiar format, durable construction, convenient storage |
| Custom-Shaped Cards | Distinctive presentation tailored to your brand |
| Clear or Frosted Cards | Unique visual effects and material appearance |
| Metallic & Specialty Finishes | Additional visual emphasis and premium details |
| Custom Carriers | A coordinated presentation for gifting and retail displays |
Specialty shapes, materials, and finishes may have compatibility limitations depending on the POS system.
Step 3: Determine Card Values
Restaurants typically choose between fixed denominations and variable-load cards.
Fixed Denominations
Cards are offered in preset amounts, such as $25, $50, or $100.
Variable-Load Cards
Customers choose the amount to load onto the card, within the limits supported by the system.
Both approaches can work well. The right choice depends on customer preferences, your POS capabilities, and how you plan to sell the cards.
Step 4: Plan the Presentation
Physical gift cards have a major advantage: they can be given as a tangible gift.
Consider how customers will receive and present them.
Gift Card Carriers: Folded holders or sleeves that provide additional branding and space for messaging.
Countertop Displays: Make cards visible and accessible near registers or checkout areas.
Seasonal Packaging: Refresh the presentation for holidays and special occasions without necessarily changing the card itself.
Bulk Gift Packaging: Useful for corporate gifts, employee recognition, and larger purchases.
Step 5: Establish the Sales Process
Decide where customers can purchase gift cards and how employees will handle transactions.
Common considerations include:
- In-person purchasing and activation.
- Online ordering, if supported.
- Employee training.
- Balance inquiries and redemption procedures.
- Lost or damaged card policies.
- Returns and applicable gift card regulations.
Be sure to review federal and applicable state laws regarding expiration dates, fees, and required disclosures.
Step 6: Promote Your Program
Once your cards are ready, make sure customers know they’re available.
Place displays near checkout areas, feature gift cards on your website, and include them in seasonal promotions.
Restaurant gift cards can be particularly relevant for birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, graduations, and corporate gifting.
Your Gift Card Launch Checklist
- Confirm gift card functionality with your POS provider.
- Obtain the required card specifications.
- Choose card material, size, and design.
- Determine available denominations.
- Explore carriers and display options.
- Confirm activation and redemption procedures.
- Review applicable gift card regulations.
- Train employees on the program.
- Test cards before launch.
- Establish a plan to promote gift card sales.
Bring Your Program to Life
From card design and specialty finishes to compatible encoding and presentation materials, thoughtful planning helps create a gift card program that works for both your business and your customers.
