A GIFT card introduced in Belfast just before the Covid pandemic is now the second-best selling in the UK, according to new data.
The Belfast City Centre Gift Card is an initiative established and funded in 2019 by the three Belfast Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) - Belfast One, Linen Quarter and Destination CQ - and featuring participating businesses in 223 locations.
It is celebrating achieving a £400,000 sales target, which directly contributes to the local economy, and is aiming to hit the £500,000 mark by the end of this year.
And the initiative has also achieved the position of number two best selling gift card in a UK league table by Mastercard featuring 96 town & city gift cards.
The Belfast gift card is reporting a 25 per cent increase in sales over the same period last year, and the BIDs have also announced a new click and collect service starting in August and a new-look card design.
Basically the card is a Mastercard-based card that works in the same way as department store/ shopping centre gift cards.
Customers purchase a card online at www.belfastgiftcard.co.uk, choose the amount to load on to it and make it a gift.
The card (all valid for a year) can be delivered directly to the gift recipient's door, downloaded as an e-card, and there's also now a click and collect option.
Majella Barkley from Belfast One BID said: “The BIDs continue to work together on this initiative with a focus on supporting Belfast city centre businesses. The Belfast card has strengthened its offering over the past few years, now with 220 shops, restaurants and businesses signed up to take part.
“And with the introduction of the click and collect service, we look forward to continued success and hitting the £500,000 target.”
Chris McCracken from Linen Quarter BID added: “The card makes a fantastic gift or reward for staff and clients, allowing them to experience our vibrant city.
“With its versatile use and access to a wide variety of venues; we are certain it can meet all customers and corporate customers needs while supporting neighbouring businesses in the area.”
Damien Corr from Destination CQ said: “ The card means you can give someone a great choice in a gift, while at the same time making sure your money is spent in the local economy. It’s fantastic to see it grow and achieve number two best-selling gift card in the UK.”
