Call On the Experts - IGCC Offers Solutions, Resources on Gift Card Industry

By Deborah L. Vence

When people want to know more about a gift card provider, are looking for networking opportunities or need business resources, the Incentive Gift Card Council (IGCC) is a top choice for information.

"IGCC is the only trade association focused exclusively on providing awareness of gift cards as a viable option for use in premium and incentive programs," said Lindsay Gale, IGCC president and senior manager, partnerships, Tango Card Inc. "As a strategic industry group within the Incentive Marketing Association (IMA), IGCC members benefit from a wealth of resources and opportunities across the entire industry, from gift cards to travel to merchandise to solution providers."

The Minneapolis-based organization provides incentive industry insights, education and networking opportunities for gift card brands and their distribution, agency and vendor partners.

"IGCC members truly are the industry experts," added Ashley Harris, IGCC board director, senior director of strategic partnerships, National Gift Card Corporation (NGC), a Crystal Lake, Ill.-based marketer and supplier of gift cards for use in loyalty, incentive and rewards programs.

"When someone is looking for a gift card provider or merchant, you want someone who really knows the industry and can bring an array of knowledge and resources to the table," she said. "Our members pay attention to emerging issues, such as fraud and security, and are better prepared to provide solutions with this in mind. We're also on top of emerging trends, so we can help people look at where gift cards are going and provide solutions with an inherent longer-term benefit."

Dennis Borst, president and COO, Patriot Marketing Group, added, "The IGCC gives its members a forum to share common information, ward off potential fraudulent buyers, and create a singular stance in the incentive engagement world."

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