Merry Christmas mum – here’s your online coffee voucher

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Posted by Tim Guest

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December 17th 2010 at 10:00

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Online vouchers

Stuck for present ideas? You’re not alone. An increasing number of people are seeking solace from the hordes of frenzied Christmas shoppers by buying electronic gift cards.

While some might see it as the height of laziness in shopping terms, it seems that an increasing number of people will get their presents with a mouse click, not down the chimney this year.

And according to a recent report, the trend for online giving is only set to increase – the amount of money spent on online gift cards over next few years is expected to surge from $1.6 billion to a huge $6 billion – and one of the biggest ways to give is through Facebook.

An increasing number of shops – including Kmart, Amazon and Starbucks – are selling themed gift cards that people can send to each other via Facebook, or post on their friends’ walls. So, um, enjoy your Christmas coffee voucher.

So, while it’s quick and easy, it’s not quite the same as the excitement you get when you unwrap a tantalising gift of carefully chosen soap on a rope. Or socks. Or perfume that smells like fly spray.

OK, suddenly we see the appeal of online gift cards.

What do you want this year? And what’s the worst Christmas gift you’ve ever received?

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