Original article by Rieva Lesonsky

I love to shop. Though circumstances have limited my purchases (starting a business puts a crimp in one's discretionary spending), I still like to hit the malls, shopping centers, and the Web to stay on top of trends. During my excursions over the past few years, I've come to notice that gift cards are now available for every chain restaurant, department store, and big-box retailer. I can even buy gift cards for these businesses at my local grocery store and drug store.

Sounds great, right? Gift cards make life easier for most consumers. However, when I check out the smaller independents, be they retail stores, restaurants, or even hair salons, far too many don't offer gift cards. I always assumed it was a matter of economics, but upon further research, I think it's more a matter of ignorance. Today, it's possible for almost any entrepreneur - no matter the size of his or her operation - to offer gift cards and even customer-loyalty programs just like the big guys do, all at a reasonable price.

A Solution