Unused gifts remain valuable to companies

Unused gift cards and gift sets, such as a 50 euro card or a weekend package, often remain unused but are still valuable to the companies that issued them. These gifts are frequently given for birthdays, Christmas, and other celebrations, and while they offer convenience, they also carry a risk of being forgotten or expired.

A third of gifts go unused

According to reports, about one out of every three gift cards and gift sets are never used. This is a significant amount, especially since the money for these gifts is collected immediately by the issuer, regardless of whether the gift is eventually used.

Unused gifts mean lost money for consumers

If a gift card or set is not used, the money collected by the issuer is not returned to the consumer. In France, this results in an estimated 1.8 billion euros being lost annually by consumers who do not use their gifts. The money is effectively lost because the corresponding product or service is never claimed.

Some redemption options exist

Some issuers of gift cards and sets allow for exchanges or extensions of expired gifts, sometimes for free. However, these options are not always available and often depend on specific conditions, deadlines, or procedures set by the issuer.

Redemption processes can be complex

Consumers must often follow detailed steps to redeem expired gifts, such as creating an account, meeting deadlines, or submitting requests. If these procedures are not followed correctly, the value of the gift may be permanently lost, similar to the rules for meal vouchers or vacation checks.

Companies benefit from unused gifts

The system benefits companies, as they retain the money from unused gifts without being obligated to provide the corresponding service. This creates a financial advantage for businesses, even if the consumer does not benefit from the gift.