Wellness rewards and incentives brand SpaFinder has introduced new gift card technology, enhanced distribution channels and additional partner services as part of efforts to “more effectively connect to consumers”.

The new Spafinder gift card will operate similar to a credit or debit card – allowing consumers to use the gift card at one or multiple spas and beauty salons in the Spafinder network.
Originally a single-use card, the new Spafinder gift card allows for multiple uses, so that consumers can spend any remaining balance on the gift card.

Spafinder will also make the cards more easier to purchase, as they go on sale at nearly 25,000 physical retail locations – including at US-wide stores Target and Albertsons.
The number of ways to purchase the cards online have also been increased, as they have been made available across a wide range of ecommerce sites – such as GiftCards.com and GiftCardMall.com; and in reward programs through Chase Rewards.

There are also new services for partners to help them grow their business, such as the ability to create and sell a partner’s own branded gift card online.
The Spafinder website will also be updated to include data tracking for partners, as well as an enhanced database for customers to find a wide range of spas and beauty salons.

The changes reflect Spafinder's new business strategy, devised following the acquisition of SpaFinder by BlackHawk Network – a global gift card distributor – in 2016.
At the time of the takeover, David Tate, senior vice president of Blackhawk’s US retail business, said Blackhawk would “improve Spafinder’s service” and would also be focusing on lowering costs.

Commenting on the latest improvements, Christi Durant, RVP of sales, Spafinder, said: “Our new gift card technology, greater distribution capabilities and product offerings make it even easier for consumers to connect with our robust network of leading spa and beauty partners.
“Our business continues to focus on building relationships with some of the best spas and beauty salons to increase our redemption network and providing customers with an easy-to-use resource for pampering themselves or others with great spa experiences.”