General Questions
What is the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card?
The Scotland Loves Local Gift Card is a new way of ensuring that money in your community stays local for longer in every region across Scotland. Like any other gift card, you can choose the amount of money to load on to the card. The only difference with this is that it can only be spent within the recipient’s own region – giving them an opportunity to enjoy and support the businesses around them.
How does it work?
Like any other gift card. It can be spent in businesses in your area which sign up to be part of the programme. These businesses can be of any size or type – they simply need to have a physical presence in the region. They cannot be used with online-only businesses.
Can I only spend it in my region?
Yes. The technology we use to run the card system means that it operates on a “closed loop”, meaning the cards are set up only to be used inside the regions for which they are branded.
Can gift cards be used online as well as over the counter?
Gift Cards feature a 16 digit MasterCard Number, CVV and Expiry date allowing them to be used online at participating online retailers, as long as that retailer has a physical ‘bricks and mortar’ presence in the local authority area.
How long are Scotland Loves Local Gift Cards valid for?
Scotland Loves Local Gift Cards are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase
Is it only small, independent businesses which can be part of the scheme? As the cards use the existing MasterCard infrastructure, Scotland Loves Local Gift Cards can be accepted by independent businesses and national retailers alike, but they need to have a physical presence in the local authority area and be making a contribution to the local economy. Local Gift Cards can also be used online, but only where that business also has a “bricks and mortar” physical presence within that local authority area.
Are there any additional costs for customers?
There are no additional costs for customers.
What functionality is there on the card’s e-commerce website? On the Gift Card platform, you can purchase cards, check balances, and discover where to spend the gift card by checking the list of participating businesses.
How secure is the gift card programme?
Very. The Gift Card program utilises existing payments infrastructure using the MasterCard Network. Funds are secured in a ring-fenced FCA compliant wallet.
Is the Gift Card Recyclable?
The Gift Card is a coated 100% paper-based card that provides a recyclable, environmentally friendly alternative to a traditional plastic gift card.
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