Gift, loyalty, membership or payment — in today’s connected economy, cards remain one of the most versatile tools for engagement, recognition, and transaction.

But as digital ecosystems expand and sustainability becomes a business priority, one question keeps coming up for every company designing its next program: should you choose a physical or a digital card?

After decades of experience in large-scale card production and digital integration, AMA Group has a clear perspective — backed by market data and client results.

The rise of Digital Cards — And what’s behind it

According to Allied Market Research, the global digital gift card market is expected to surpass $1.5 trillion by 2032, growing at an annual rate above 15%.

That growth is fueled by three key factors:

• The global adoption of mobile wallets and e-commerce.
• The rise of instant, on-demand gifting and loyalty experiences.
• And the increasing demand for sustainable and contactless solutions.

Digital cards offer speed, convenience, and zero logistics — qualities that appeal especially to younger, tech-driven consumers. They integrate seamlessly into mobile apps and CRM systems, ensuring real-time activation, traceability, and analytics.

However, despite their exponential rise, digital cards are not replacing physical ones — at least not yet.

The tactile advantage of Physical Cards

While digital solutions dominate headlines, the market continues to recognize the emotional and experiential power of a physical card.

The tactile feel, the premium packaging, and the brand visibility every time it’s taken from a wallet — all contribute to a deeper connection with the customer.

In loyalty and gifting, perception equals value. And physical cards still create a sense of importance and exclusivity that digital formats rarely replicate.

Moreover, thanks to eco-friendly and recyclable materials, modern physical cards can now align with corporate sustainability goals — minimizing environmental impact while maintaining quality and durability.

Digital Cards: speed, security, and scalability

Digital cards shine where immediacy and automation matter most.

They can be issued and activated in seconds, sent globally without logistics, and managed through centralized digital systems — ideal for online retailers, travel operators, and corporate incentive programs.

Their main advantages:

• Instant delivery and activation.
• Secure and traceable data management.
• Zero physical waste and shipping impact.
• Perfect integration with CRM and loyalty platforms.

The potential downside?
For less tech-savvy audiences or premium gifting experiences, the lack of physical presence may reduce perceived value and engagement.

Card Production, Physical VS Digital? — Why the market says “both”

The truth is: the most successful loyalty programs combine both.
Hybrid solutions are now the standard in corporate loyalty, retail, and GDO sectors.

A physical card can represent status and tangibility, while a digital twin ensures accessibility, scalability, and real-time management.

This dual approach:

• Maximizes brand visibility.
• Reaches every customer segment.
• And delivers a consistent, omnichannel experience.

That’s why many AMA Group clients today choose integrated physical–digital ecosystems, ensuring flexibility without compromising on user experience or brand perception.

The AMA Group approach: integration, technology, and reliability

For 30 years, AMA Group has supported leading brands across Retail, GDO, Petrol, Travel, and Corporate sectors with industrial card production and digital system integration.

We design, produce, and manage physical and digital cards at scale — combining precision manufacturing, secure infrastructures, and advanced automation.

Our solutions include:

• Sustainable card production with eco-certified materials
• Digital card management platforms for large-scale clients
• End-to-end customization, from design to delivery
• Omnichannel integration for loyalty, payment, and welfare systems

Because in the end, the real choice isn’t between physical or digital — it’s about finding the right balance between technology, design, and human experience.

Looking for a trusted partner to design and produce your next generation of cards? Explore more here.