Why choose an employee rewards card over merchandise

Dec 18, 2024 | 5 min read

Boosting employee morale through recognition is great, but giving them the reward they genuinely want is even more impactful.

When creating your company’s employee recognition programs, it’s important to select rewards that employees want and will use. To get the most from your company’s rewards and recognition budget, consider an employee rewards card. Let’s explore why this method of rewarding employees is a win-win situation for you and your team.

Employees report a preference for prepaid rewards cards

According to the Incentives Magazine, eight out of 10 employees surveyed say they would prefer rewards card to other merchandise, such as catalog selections, or a manager-chosen memento. Unlike clocks, plaques or other reward merchandise, employee rewards card is versatile and useful.

These prepaid rewards cards allow employees to purchase whatever they want. If the employee wants to use it to treat family and friends, they can use the card to do that. Whether it’s treating a family, or buying essentials like groceries, a rewards card offers the flexibility for multiple purchases at various locations.

Among the various employee rewards cards, prepaid Visa® rewards cards are popular due to their versality. Other than cash or a check, a Visa® rewards card offers the recipient the most flexibility, as it can be used for online or in-store purchases.

A popular way of rewarding employees

Prepaid rewards cards have become a popular idea for employee recognition, as shown by the steady increase in rewards cards given as personal gifts. According to an article published by GrabOn, 71% of consumers prefer a digital reward card due to their convenience and immediacy. Also, it can alleviate the stress of shopping and give the recipient more freedom to get something they truly want. Similarly, it can reduce costs and time associated with selecting, shipping and packaging merchandise awards.

Rewarding employees with rewards card incentives is a versatile employee recognition idea all organizations can use. These cards come in various dollar amounts and employees can use them in stores, online or over the phone for anything they would like. Whether it’s groceries, gas, clothing, something for the kids or a nice dinner out with family or friends, the choice is theirs.

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Disclosures

This document is prepared by U.S. Bank as a service for its customers. The information discussed is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation.

Purchase fee applies. Rewards Card cannot be reloaded with additional funds, nor can it be used at an ATM. No cash access. For use only as part of a loyalty, awards, or promotional program. Terms and conditions, including fees, apply. Rewards Card is issued by U.S. Bank National Association pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Member FDIC. FDIC insured to Sponsor.