The use of mobile phones for utilizing gift cards and making payments has surged in recent years, reflecting a significant shift in consumer behavior. According to recent statistics, 58% of active mobile phone users are now interested in using their devices to redeem gift cards and pay for goods and services. This increase highlights the growing integration of mobile technology in everyday transactions.
Mobile Momentum & Payment Adoption
The mobile gift card revolution is well underway—it's not just convenience anymore; it's essential.
- In 2025, the global mobile payment market reached $121.3 billion, with U.S. proximity-based mobile payments totaling $670.5 billion in 2024.1
- The mobile payment sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 38% between 2025 and 2030, potentially hitting $587.5 billion by 2030.
- Digital wallets already account for 53% of online purchases globally, with penetration rates rising steadily.
- Notably, over 70% of millennials now prefer digital (e‑gift) cards, highlighting the shift toward mobile-first convenience.2
- In 2024, over 60% of gift card sales were digital, and mobile wallet–based gift cards surged by 50%, fueled by ease and immediacy.3
Trends in Personalization, Security & Corporate Use
The future of mobile gift cards hinges on personalization, safety, and strategic integration.
- Personalization is a game-changer: Over 60% of customers now expect personalized gifting solutions.
- AI-driven customization—dynamic designs, tailored messaging—is rapidly reshaping consumer expectations.
- Corporations are leveraging gift cards for staff incentives and loyalty programs: 71% integrate them into loyalty initiatives.
- Security gets a boost via blockchain-backed gift cards (up 30–40% adoption)4, AI fraud detection systems, and biometric and tokenization improvements—significantly curbing risk.5
Market Outlook: Size & Growth Trajectory
The industry is not just growing—it’s scaling up.
- In the U.S., the gift card market was valued at $216.9 billion in 2024, and is projected to reach $307.2 billion by 2029 at a 7% CAGR6.
- Globally, digital gift cards now compose over 60% of total sales, driving the market expansion.
- Sales are expected to climb from $214 billion in 2024 to $267 billion by 2028, maintaining a 5.68% annual growth rate.
Why This Matters for Your Business
Your audience is using mobile devices more than ever, checking their phones 144 times a day with 4.5 hours of screen time daily7. They expect seamless, secure, and personalized experiences. Mobile wallet integration, real-time redemption, AI personalization, and enhanced security aren’t optional—they’re expectations.
| Trend / Metric | 2025 Snapshot |
|---|---|
| Mobile Wallet Adoption | $670.5 billion in U.S. proximity payments |
| Mobile Payment Market Value | $88.5 billion in 2024 |
| Digital Gift Card Share | > 60% of sales |
| U.S. Market Growth (2024–2029) | From $216.9B to $307.2B |
| Preferred Consumer Features | Personalization, convenience, security |
The Future of Mobile Gift Cards
The trajectory of mobile technology in the gift card industry indicates a promising future. Businesses that prioritize secure, user-friendly mobile payment solutions will likely see increased consumer engagement and satisfaction. As the industry evolves, maintaining a focus on both innovation and security will be key to harnessing the full potential of mobile gift cards.
For more information on the growing mobile market for gift cards, check out the full range of insights and data available from leading industry reports. Ready to embrace the future of mobile payments and make sure your business is ready to meet the demands of today's tech-savvy consumers? Contact our gift card experts to learn more about our gift card program management and consultancy services.
Sources
1. Digital Wallet Statistics (2025): Users, growth rate & Trends. (2025, July 23). Capital One Shopping. https://capitaloneshopping.com/research/digital-wallet-statistics
2. Global Growth Insights. (2025, May 8). Gift card market. https://www.globalgrowthinsights.com/market-reports/gift-card-market-107555
3. McCann, A. (n.d.). Gift card Statistics (2025). WalletHub. https://wallethub.com/edu/gift-card-market-size/25590
4. Global Growth Insights. (2025b, August 1). Gift cards market. https://www.globalgrowthinsights.com/market-reports/gift-cards-market-108601
5. Elad, B. (2025, June 16). Prepaid Card Statistics 2025: key players, innovations, and regional insights. CoinLaw. https://coinlaw.io/prepaid-card-statistics/
6. Markets, R. A. (2025, March 12). United States Gift and Incentive Card Market Report 2025: Gyft and Prezzee Enter the Market with Unique Digital Gift Card Solutions. GlobeNewswire News Room. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/03/12/3041432/0/en/United-States-Gift-and-Incentive-Card-Market-Report-2025-Gyft-and-Prezzee-Enter-the-Market-with-Unique-Digital-Gift-Card-Solutions.html
7. ConsumerAffairs. “Cell phone statistics 2025 [2025]” ConsumerAffairs.com. Mar. 20, 2025, https://www.consumeraffairs.com/cell_phones/cell-phone-statistics.html
