Gift card bonuses leading more shoppers to buy

Tons of retailers are offering incentives if you buy a gift card, which is a proven tactic to close a deal.

Most online shoppers -- 88% -- are more likely to buy a gift card that comes with a perk than one that doesn't, according to a CashStar survey of 800 folks in October.

The incentives are also a sign of competition between retailers but consumers benefit so I don't mind! Some of these deals are good enough that you might want to stock up for yourself.

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf gives a free beverage if you buy $25 worth of gift cards in stores only.


CVS gives $5 for a $25 gift card purchase, with kickbacks up to $30 for larger denominations.

Buy a $100 gift card at the Container Store, get a $25 bonus card for yourself, up to five $25 e-cards.

At Maggiano's, one of my favorite family style restaurants, get $20 back when you buy a $100 gift card, up to $100 in rewards.

At Uno Chicago Grille, get a $5 bonus voucher when you buy a $25 gift card.

Buy a $100 gift card at GreatSpaEscapes.com and get a $20 bonus card.

What other gift card incentives have you come across? Please leave a comment so others benefit.

Thanks, Punam!