Content Menu
● Introduction
● European Gift Card Market Growth
● Major Gift Cards Manufacturers and Suppliers
>> Edenred
>> Blackhawk Network
>> Sodexo
>> Diggecard
>> Green Gift Cards
>> Huuray
>> SVS Europe
>> Amazon and Major Retailers
● Trends in Card Types and Formats
>> Closed-Loop vs Open-Loop
>> Digital Gift Cards Surpass Physical Cards
>> Personalization
● Packaging Innovations and Sustainability
● Market Segmentation
● Digital Transformation and Security
● Regional Patterns and Opportunities
● Case Study: Custom European Card Packaging
● Regulatory Landscape
● Future Outlook
● Conclusion
● Frequently Asked Questions
>> 1. What drives demand for gift cards in Europe?
>> 2. How do digital cards compare to physical ones?
>> 3. Are European gift cards secure?
>> 4. Can suppliers fulfill OEM and bulk orders for overseas clients?
>> 5. What are the top trends shaping the future of gift cards in Europe?
● Citations
Introduction
Gift cardshave become indispensable tools for modern retailers, brands, and corporate managers across Europe. The emergence of Gift Cards Manufacturers and Suppliers specializing in tailored, secure, and eco-friendly solutions reflects how gifting has evolved from a simple transaction to a strategic business enabler. European companies are at the forefront of market growth, offering innovative packaging, digital delivery, and highly customizable products designed for both individual consumers and enterprise clients.[1][2]
European Gift Card Market Growth
In 2025, the gift card market in Europe is projected to reach nearly US$78.9 billion, advancing at a yearly growth rate of 8.5%. By 2032, market value is expected to exceed US$121.7 billion, reflecting continued demand for convenient, flexible gifting options and wide adoption in corporate settings as employee incentives and customer rewards.[2][4][6][1]
Key growth drivers include:
- Rapid expansion of e-commerce and mobile wallets, making digital cards the preferred choice for a majority of consumers.[6]
- Increasing use of gift cards in corporate incentive programs across Western Europe.[5]
- Regulatory changes, especially in France and Germany, supporting consumer protection and transparency in gift card terms.[5]
- Corporate preference for customizable incentive cards and loyalty integrations.[6]
The market is characterized by diverse regional patterns: digital formats dominate in Northern and Western Europe, while physical cards still maintain relevance in Southern and Eastern European markets due to local cultural preferences.[5][6]
Major Gift Cards Manufacturers and Suppliers
Edenred
Edenred leads in employee benefits and incentive cards, operating throughout Europe with a strong focus on digital delivery and corporate rewards. Their widespread B2B channel makes them vital for multi-national employers seeking scalable solutions.[1]
Blackhawk Network
Blackhawk Network is known for its global gift card distribution and secure digital platforms. They offer closed-loop and open-loop cards for retailers, wholesalers, and large enterprises.[4][1]
Sodexo
With a robust presence in France, Germany, and other European markets, Sodexo provides customized reward programs and supports digital transformation for corporate gifting.[1][5]
Diggecard
This award-winning supplier excels in tailored gift card solutions, supporting digital, physical, and API-based distribution. Diggecard's technology and rapid fulfillment options make them a top choice for brands launching promotional campaigns.[11][12]
Green Gift Cards
Green Gift Cards drives sustainability in the card industry, offering plastic-free, recyclable solutions. Their products appeal to brands aiming to enhance eco-credentials and reduce plastic use.[13][14]
Huuray
Huuray specializes in digital and bulk physical cards, focusing on rapid delivery for campaigns and B2B needs. Their order management tools streamline processes for European brands.[15]
SVS Europe
SVS provides advanced integration and analytics, giving retailers actionable insights into customer engagement and loyalty through gift card programs.[15]
Amazon and Major Retailers
Amazon, Carrefour, and Zalando represent the “retail giants” segment, leveraging extensive distribution channels and loyalty-driven closed-loop cards for repeated business and consumer satisfaction.[4][1]
Trends in Card Types and Formats
Closed-Loop vs Open-Loop
Closed-loop cards, which can only be used with specific brands, accounted for nearly 59% of market share in 2024. However, open-loop cards—supported by Mastercard and Visa, and redeemable anywhere—are gaining market share due to growing demand for flexibility by cross-border consumers and remote workers.[6]
Digital Gift Cards Surpass Physical Cards
Digital issuance overtook physical cards in Europe, accounting for 58% of the market in 2024 and growing at a CAGR above 10%. Digital cards appeal due to instant delivery, mobile-wallet compatibility, and regulatory pressure to cut down single-use plastics.[10][6]
Personalization
Personalized digital cards with branded messages, recipient names, and integrated loyalty features enhance customer experience and retention. European Gift Cards Manufacturers and Suppliers are investing heavily in customization technology.[6]
Packaging Innovations and Sustainability
European manufacturers are responding to consumer and regulatory demands with:
- Recycled and biodegradable materials for packaging and card carriers.
- Innovative box styles such as rigid magnetic boxes, pop-ups, and reusable fabric wraps for premium brands.[16][17]
- FSC® certified paper and soy-based inks, reducing environmental footprint.[18][16]
- Anti-counterfeit features including holograms, custom barcodes, and scratch-off PINs for secure redemption.[19][18]
These sustainable options not only address environmental concerns but also serve as powerful marketing differentiators for brands.[14][13][18]
Market Segmentation
- Retail Segment: Major supermarkets, specialty stores, and e-commerce leaders deploy both physical and digital gift cards for consumer sales and seasonal campaigns.[4][1]
- Corporate Segment: Companies issue cards as rewards to staff and partners, customizing the design and packaging to reflect brand identity.[2][5]
- Fintech & Digital Platforms: Technology providers merge payment systems and loyalty platforms, increasing share of embedded finance and data-driven analytics for card programs.[1][6]
- Bulk & OEM: Providers offer fast-turnaround OEM services, custom designs, and flexible logistics for large orders from global partners.[20][19]
Digital Transformation and Security
With the proliferation of mobile-first applications and instant redemption, security becomes paramount. European manufacturers integrate:
- QR codes and NFC chips for quick redemption.
- Enhanced fraud prevention and encrypted data management.
- GDPR compliance and transparent terms for consumers, especially where digital cards are being delivered to mobile wallets or online platforms.[21][6]
Regional Patterns and Opportunities
- Western Europe leads the market, particularly the UK, Germany, and France, supported by robust corporate programs and high consumer spending.[5]
- Northern Europe prefers digital formats, riding on strong e-commerce and mobile penetration.[6]
- Southern Europe continues to show demand for tactile, physical cards with elaborate packaging for special occasions.[5]
- Eastern Europe is emerging as a growth market, with increasing volume but still lower than the West.[5]
Case Study: Custom European Card Packaging
Major European gift card manufacturers offer distinct packaging formats for clients:
- Custom kraft paper boxes designed for retail display and easy customer access.[19]
- Pop-up and rigid magnetic boxes with branded layers for luxury gift experiences.[17][16]
- Printed envelopes and sleeves for high-volume OEM or wholesale requirements.[18][20]
- Card booklets and catalogs for multi-brand programs or loyalty campaigns.[18]
These packaging solutions are widely requested by overseas clients running cross-border marketing campaigns and promotional events.
Regulatory Landscape
European regulatory bodies are increasingly introducing measures to:
- Protect consumers with minimum validity periods on cards (often at least one year).[2]
- Limit hidden fees on redemption.
- Promote transparency and data security in digital gift card programs.
- Facilitate instant top-ups using EU Digital ID wallets and PSD3 compliance for payments.[6]
These measures give confidence to both businesses and end users, supporting continued growth in the sector.
Future Outlook
The European gift card market is expected to:
- See stronger annual growth rates, exceeding 7% CAGR through to 2032, driven primarily by digital, mobile, and personalized solutions.[2][1][6]
- Broaden the scope of embedded finance, integrating card programs with loyalty, promotions, and brand collaborations.
- Raise standards for eco-friendly production as regulations tighten and consumer expectations rise.[13]
- Embrace new anti-fraud innovations and data privacy protections for digital gifting.
Conclusion
Europe's market for Gift Cards Manufacturers and Suppliers stands at the intersection of digital transformation, sustainability, and personalized consumer engagement. With rising corporate adoption, innovative packaging, and regulatory support, manufacturers are reshaping how brands approach loyalty and incentive programs. From eco-friendly card solutions to sophisticated digital platforms, the region's leaders set global standards for security, creativity, and service. As companies and wholesalers seek efficient, flexible, and impactful gifting, European suppliers will remain trusted partners for every challenge and campaign on the horizon.[4][1][2][6]
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What drives demand for gift cards in Europe?
Increasing e-commerce, mobile-wallet use, expanding employer reward programs, and consumer preference for flexible, personalized giving are the main growth drivers, with digital cards now accounting for over half of all formats.[5][6]
2. How do digital cards compare to physical ones?
Digital cards offer instant delivery, lower logistics costs, and seamless mobile integration, while physical cards still appeal for premium gifting and celebrations, especially in Southern Europe. Digital formats are growing faster year-over-year but physical cards remain relevant for certain segments.[6][5]
3. Are European gift cards secure?
Yes. Manufacturers implement encryption, anti-fraud labeling (e.g., scratch-off PINs, barcodes), GDPR-compliant data handling, and mobile integrations with secure authentication for both physical and digital cards.[21][6]
4. Can suppliers fulfill OEM and bulk orders for overseas clients?
Leading European manufacturers offer express OEM packaging, custom designs, short turnaround times, and flexible shipping for global partners in corporate campaigns, wholesale, and branded promotions.[20][19]
5. What are the top trends shaping the future of gift cards in Europe?
Digital-first gifting, eco-friendly materials, personalized and loyalty-integrated products, embedded finance, and enhanced security are driving market growth and innovation in the sector.[1][5][6]
Citations
[1](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250415682152/en/Europe-Gift-Card-and-Incentive-Card-Report-2025-2029-$105-Billion-Market-Characterized-by-Established-Retailers-Fintech-Firms-and-Digital-Platforms-with-Amazon-Carrefour-and-Zalando-Leading---ResearchAndMarkets.com)
[2](https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/europe-gift-card-market.asp)
[3](https://theirf.org/research_post/industry-outlook-for-2025-merchandise-gift-cards-and-event-gifting/)
[4](https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/04/04/3055841/28124/en/Europe-Gift-Card-and-Incentive-Card-Report-2025-Market-to-Grow-by-8-5-to-Reach-78-9-Billion-this-Year-Future-Growth-Dynamics-to-2029.html)
[5](https://www.archivemarketresearch.com/reports/europe-gift-card-and-incentive-card-industry-863818)
[6](https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/europe-gift-card-and-incentive-card-market)
[7](https://www.paynxt360.com/reportstore/view/europe-gift-card-and-incentive-card-market-analysis)
[8](https://straitsresearch.com/vertex/insights/gift-cards-market/europe)
[9](https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/gift-cards-global-market-report)
[10](https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/europe-digital-gift-card-market/)
[11](https://diggecard.com/incentive-awards-best-gift-card-supplier-2024/)
[12](https://diggecard.com)
[13](https://www.greengiftcards.co.uk)
[14](https://www.greengiftcards.co.uk/about-us)
[15](https://huuray.com/inspiration/gift-cards/gift-card-market-in-europe/)
[16](https://paperartuk.com/top-15-gift-packaging-manufacturers-in-europe/)
[17](https://www.giftboxitalia.com/mobile/en/gift-card-packaging.html)
[18](https://www.expresta.eu/gift-vouchers)
[19](https://skylark2.en.made-in-china.com/product/CJxYNdeoljUS/China-OEM-Customized-Wholesale-European-Style-Gift-Card-Kraft-Paper-Greeting-Gard.html)
[20](https://www.alibaba.com/showroom/oem-packaging.html)
[21](https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/europe-gift-card-and-incentive-card-market/companies)
