Analysis on the Customers Usage of Gift Cards and Gift Vouchers through Online Payment in Coimbatore
Tharunbalaaje Ramasamy
Dr. D. PARASAKTHI, M.Com., M.Phil., P.G.D.C.A., M.C.A., LL.B., Ph.D.,
CHAPTER – I
INTRODUCTION
1.1 INTRODUCTION FOR ONLINE GIFT CARD – AN OVERVIEW
In the dynamic landscape of contemporary consumer culture, the concept of gift-giving has undergone a profound transformation. Gone are the days when selecting the perfect gift involved hours of browsing crowded malls and meticulous consideration of personal preferences. Enter the era of Online Gift Cards—a revolution in the art of gifting that has not only streamlined the process but has also added a new layer of versatility and personalization to the age-old tradition of exchanging presents. A Online Gift Card, in its simplest form, is a prepaid card that carries a monetary value and is typically issued by retailers or businesses. These cards have transcended traditional gifting norms, offering recipients the freedom to choose their desired items from a vast array of products or services. The evolution of Online Gift Cards has been a fascinating journey, marked by technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, and a redefinition of the emotional and social aspects associated with gift-giving. The origins of Online Gift Cards can be traced back to the mid-20th century when retailers began experimenting with the idea of providing customers with a convenient alternative to traditional gift certificates. However, it wasn't until the late 20th century and the early 21st century that Online Gift Cards truly gained widespread popularity, becoming a ubiquitous and preferred choice for both gift-givers and receivers. The transition from tangible, paper-based gift certificates to sleek, plastic cards with magnetic strips or electronic chips marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of gift-giving. One of the primary reasons behind the meteoric rise of Online Gift Cards is their unparalleled convenience. Unlike traditional gifts, which may require exhaustive deliberation and might still miss the mark, Online Gift Cards empower both givers and recipients with flexibility. Givers no longer need to navigate the labyrinth of individual preferences, sizes, or colors, and recipients no longer have to feign enthusiasm for ill-fitting sweaters or mismatched kitchen appliances. Instead, the Online Gift Card offers a passport to a retail wonderland or a digital marketplace where the possibilities are as diverse as the personalities of the recipients.
