Top 7 Tools for Creating Small Business Gift Cards in 2025

In 2025, small businesses are finding more innovative ways to engage customers, and one of the most effective strategies is offering gift cards. Whether it's digital or physical, a gift card program helps attract new clients, boost brand visibility, and encourage repeat purchases.

This guide explores the top 7 tools for creating gift cards tailored for small business needs—cost-effective, user-friendly, and designed for today’s fast-paced digital marketplace.

Why Gift Cards Matter for Small Businesses

Gift cards are no longer just for big-box retailers. Small businesses can now leverage technology to offer their own branded cards. Here’s why they matter:

• Increased Cash Flow: Customers pay upfront.

• Customer Acquisition: Gift recipients may become loyal customers.

• Brand Awareness: Shareable and easy to promote.

• Flexible Gifting: Digital gift cards can be sent instantly.

• Analytics & Tracking: Platforms offer insight into customer behavior.

With these benefits in mind, let’s dive into the best tools to launch your own gift card program in 2025.

Top 7 Tools for Creating Small Business Gift Cards in 2025

1. Square Gift Cards

Best for: Retail and service-based businesses using Square POS

Key Features:

• Sell physical or digital gift cards
  
  

• Custom branding available
  
  

• Integrates directly with Square’s POS
  
  

• No monthly fees
  
  

Why It’s Great:
Square is perfect for small businesses already using Square POS. You can create, manage, and track gift cards easily from your dashboard. Plus, it's beginner-friendly.

2. Shopify Gift Cards

Best for: Online stores using Shopify

Key Features:

• Available on most Shopify plans
  
  

• Digital delivery via email
  
  

• Branded customization
  
  

• Built-in reporting and analytics
  
  

Why It’s Great:
Shopify makes it simple to sell and manage gift cards online. You can automate delivery, set expiration dates, and monitor performance—all within your eCommerce store.

3. Toast Gift Cards

Best for: Restaurants and cafes

Key Features:

• Integrated with Toast POS
  
  

• Supports both physical and eGift cards
  
  

• Auto-refill and loyalty program integration
  
  

• Custom card design options
  
  

Why It’s Great:
For hospitality businesses, Toast is a go-to solution. It simplifies the process of launching gift card promotions, especially during peak seasons.

4. Clover Gift Cards

Best for: Businesses using Clover POS systems

Key Features:

• Accept and issue cards across locations
  
  

• Customizable card designs
  
  

• Includes email and SMS options
  
  

• Loyalty integration
  
  

Why It’s Great:
Clover allows businesses to offer both digital and physical gift cards with strong POS integration, helping streamline your checkout process and increase repeat visits.

5. Gift Up!

Best for: Service-based businesses and freelancers

Key Features:

• No monthly fees, just a per-transaction charge
  
  

• Embeds directly into your website or social media
  
  

• Supports multiple currencies
  
  

• Custom branding
  
  

Why It’s Great:
Gift Up! is incredibly flexible and doesn’t require a full website. Perfect for coaches, consultants, salons, or anyone offering appointments or packages.

6. Loyverse Gift Cards

Best for: Budget-conscious retail stores and cafes

Key Features:

• Free POS system with gift card support
  
  

• In-app reporting
  
  

• Unlimited gift card issuance
  
  

• Easy integration with barcode scanners
  
  

Why It’s Great:
Loyverse is a hidden gem for small businesses that want professional-level tools without the hefty cost. Ideal for new startups and small retailers.

7. Givex

Best for: Businesses needing enterprise-level features

Key Features:

• Omnichannel gift card management
  
  

• Fraud protection and security
  
  

• Customizable API integrations
  
  

• Multi-location support
  
  

Why It’s Great:
Givex is suitable for businesses that expect growth. With enterprise-level capabilities, it’s great for companies expanding across regions or needing advanced security features.

How to Choose the Right Gift Card Platform

Here’s what to consider:

Ask yourself: Do you want digital, physical, or both? Do you need loyalty integration? Start there.

Conclusion

Offering gift cards in 2025 isn’t just a nice bonus—it’s a strategic business move. Whether you’re a boutique shop, a local cafe, or an online consultant, the right tool can boost customer engagement and drive consistent revenue.

From Square’s simplicity to Givex’s enterprise power, these tools provide everything a small business needs to get started. Most are affordable, easy to set up, and scalable as your business grows.

If you're still unsure which route to take, compare the pros and cons in our guide:
👉 Digital Gift Cards vs. Physical Gift Cards: What’s Better for Gifting?

Also, if you're concerned about environmental responsibility, read more on
👉 The Environmental Impact of Plastic Gift Cards and Digital Alternatives

And for insights into broader industry trends, explore
👉 Gift Card Market 2025: A Comprehensive Global Digital Analysis

Start today, and turn happy customers into loyal promoters of your brand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are digital gift cards better than physical ones?

Both have their benefits. Digital cards are easier to distribute online and cost less. Physical cards work well in-store and feel more tangible to customers. 

Can I create gift cards without a POS system?

Yes! Tools like Gift Up! let you sell gift cards via your website or social media without needing a full POS. Learn how easy it is in our guide:

👉 How Small Businesses Can Easily Create Gift Cards in 2025.

Do I need to pay monthly to use these tools?

Some, like Square and Gift Up!, only charge per transaction. Others, like Givex, may involve monthly fees depending on your business needs.

Can I track how gift cards are used?

Yes. Most platforms offer detailed reporting so you can track purchases, redemptions, and outstanding balances.If you’re torn, check out our in-depth comparison:

👉Top 10 Gift Card Scams and How to Avoid Them in 2025.

What should I include on a gift card?

Your logo, expiration date (if any), card value, redemption instructions, and a unique code or barcode.