SmallBusinessNewz

While some people are great gift-buyers, others aren't, and even those folks with the magic touch can run out of time or ideas.  So both common sense and a new National Retail Federation report should lead you to offer gift cards as an option this holiday season.

The NRF said in a statement, "54.9 percent of consumers would like to receive a gift card this holiday season, up slightly from 53.8 percent last year.  Gift cards will be the most requested gift this year, followed by books, CDs, DVDs, videos or video games (50.0%) and clothing or accessories (49.8%)."

Granted, gift cards don't make a lot of sense at some businesses, so a few of you will get a pass.  But here are a couple of ways in which other companies can make their gift cards extra appealing.

First, eliminate any fees and expiration dates.  While these might appear to make you money, they can also ding gift card sales in the first place.  Then, try to offer some personalization options.  Gift cards are only a step away from handing someone money, after all, and folks like to look like they put a little effort into things.

Finally, don't forget to promote the gift cards.  A new product of any sort isn't likely to get sold if it just sits tucked away beneath the cash register.