How to Successfully Set Up Your Toast Gift Card Module and Start Selling Gift Cards

Gift cards have become a popular way for customers to share their favorite dining experiences with friends and family. As a restaurant owner, offering gift cards can be a lucrative way to increase revenue and attract new customers. Toast makes it easy to set up and start selling gift cards with its intuitive Gift Card module. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Enable the Gift Card Module

First, you'll need to enable the Gift Card module in your Toast POS system. Here’s how:

1. Log in to Toast Web: Access your Toast Web account by logging in with your credentials.
2. Navigate to Modules: Go to the ‘Modules’ section in the main menu.
3. Enable Gift Cards: Find the Gift Card module and toggle it to enable. This will activate the feature and allow you to start setting up gift cards.

Step 2: Configure Gift Card Settings

Once the module is enabled, it’s time to configure your gift card settings:

1. Access Gift Card Settings: Navigate to ‘Payments’ in the admin panel, then select ‘Gift Cards.’
2. Set Denominations: Choose the denominations you want to offer. Common amounts include $10, $25, $50, and $100, but you can customize these based on your preferences.
3. Custom Messages: Allow customers to add personal messages to their gift cards for a more personalized touch.
4. Expiration Date: Decide if you want your gift cards to have an expiration date. Some jurisdictions require gift cards to never expire, so be sure to check local regulations.

Step 3: Design Your Gift Cards

A visually appealing gift card can make a great impression. Here’s how to design your cards:

1. Upload Your Logo: Ensure your restaurant’s branding is front and center by uploading your logo.
2. Choose a Template: Toast offers a variety of templates to choose from. Select one that fits your restaurant’s style and aesthetic.
3. Customize Colors: Adjust the colors to match your branding. Keep it consistent with your overall restaurant theme.

Step 4: Train Your Staff

Your staff plays a crucial role in selling and processing gift cards. Make sure they’re well-trained on the system:

1. Selling Gift Cards: Show your staff how to sell gift cards through the POS system. Make sure they know how to select denominations and add custom messages.
2. Redeeming Gift Cards: Train your team on how to redeem gift cards during a transaction. This includes scanning physical cards and entering codes for digital cards.
3. Handling Questions: Equip your staff with answers to common questions customers may have about gift cards, such as balance inquiries and expiration policies.

Step 5: Promote Your Gift Cards

Now that your gift card module is set up, it’s time to let your customers know about it:

1. In-Restaurant Promotion: Use table tents, posters, and menu inserts to advertise your gift cards.
2. Online Promotion: Promote your gift cards on your website and social media channels. Create posts that highlight the convenience and benefits of purchasing gift cards.
3. Email Campaigns: Send out an email blast to your customer list announcing your gift cards. Include a link to purchase digital gift cards online.

Step 6: Monitor and Manage Gift Cards

After launching your gift card program, it’s important to keep track of sales and manage the program effectively:

1. Track Sales: Use the reporting tools in Toast to monitor gift card sales and redemptions. This will help you understand the popularity of your gift cards and identify any trends.
2. Balance Management: Make it easy for customers to check their gift card balances by providing a balance inquiry option on your website or through your staff.
3. Customer Feedback: Pay attention to customer feedback regarding your gift card program and make adjustments as needed to improve the experience.

Boost Your Revenue with Toast Gift Cards

Setting up your Toast Gift Card module is a straightforward process that can bring significant benefits to your restaurant. By offering gift cards, you not only provide a convenient option for your customers but also create opportunities for increased sales and customer loyalty. Follow these steps to get your gift card program up and running, and start reaping the rewards today!