Gift Cards as Stress Relievers? Exploring Holiday Spending Trends with Blackhawk Network


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Mar 13 2025 30 mins   1

When you think of ways to relieve stress, gift cards probably don’t top your list. But new research from Blackhawk Network suggests they might be the unsung heroes of holiday stress management. In this episode, Ben Jackson chats with Sarah Kositzke, Senior Global Insights Manager at Blackhawk, about the company’s 2024 holiday spending study.

Join us as we discuss:

  • The continued growth in gift card spending.

  • How consumers are turning to AI for their shopping needs.

  • The surprising role gift cards play in reducing stress before, during, and after the holiday season.

This episode was recorded on February 28, 2025—so some details may have changed by the time you listen.

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