Browse all cards
A BIA (Business Improvement Area) in the heart of the Niagara region has unveiled its new Gift Card to encourage people to rediscover and explore Downtown St. Catharines.
Known for its profusion of restaurants, vintage shops, fascinating history, and arts & entertainment district, Downtown St Catharines is considered the Urban Growth Centre of Niagara. The Downtown St. Catharines Gift Card can be spent with a variety of participating businesses, including hospitality, retail and services, keeping dollars locked into St. Catharines and driving tourism.
Led by St. Catharines Downtown Association (SCDA), the new Gift Card is the latest endeavour to encourage a shop local ethos in Downtown St. Catharines. The city has previously offered a paper Downtown Dollars program.
Rachel Braithwaite, Executive Director at SCDA, said tourism is one way the new Gift Card will be used:
“The Downtown St. Catharines Gift Card will allow people to share the experience of our thriving arts scene, diverse dining, eclectic shopping and specialized services, all located in a beautiful, historic and unique downtown.”
“A Gift Card is something our community has asked for,” adds Braithwaite. “We offered Downtown Dollars in the past but the new Downtown St. Catharines Gift Card works like a regular Gift Card so it’s easier for customers and merchants and is a great way for people to give the gift of downtown. Organizations could give their clients or staff the Gift Card to spend as they choose in our beautiful downtown. As the cost of living increases, choice for the recipient is more important than ever.”
Downtown restaurants oddBird and oddBar are part of the new St. Catharines Gift Card. Justin Duc, co-owner of the restaurants said:
“As a proud member of the Downtown St. Catharines community, we believe that these Gift Cards are a great way to encourage our existing customers to try something new downtown, while also exposing us to potentially new customers. The best thing about these Gift Cards is that you don’t have to spend it all in one place. A night out downtown could be enjoyed in a number of different venues, all on the same Gift Card.”
Archives Wine & Spirit Merchants is one of the retailers set to accept the St. Catharines Gift Card. Robbie Raskin from the retail boutique said:
“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome the new Downtown St. Catharines Gift Card to our vibrant community. Having a Gift Card that can be used at different downtown businesses will offer everyone the opportunity to explore and enjoy the many unique experiences our area has to offer. As a wine retailer, we can’t wait to be part of this exciting journey, and we’re ready to raise a toast to the possibilities it brings!”
The Downtown St. Catharines Gift Card can also be spent with a range of services businesses. Julie Christiansen from Counselling & Psychotherapy, Spa for the Soul, said:
“Gift cards for Downtown St. Catharines are a wellness treasure for our clients. They gift the ultimate experience of relaxation and self-care, and in turn, they benefit our business by introducing new clients to our services. These Gift Cards are a thoughtful gesture for any occasion, and we’re delighted to be a part of this program that brings well-being and rejuvenation to our community.”
Dr. Dimple Sharma from Downtown Dental Centre adds:
“The Downtown St. Catharines Gift Cards make dental care accessible to all, and we’re proud to be a part of this initiative that encourages healthier smiles within our community.”
The Downtown St. Catharines Gift Card is available to buy online with delivery direct to the recipient, and can also be purchased in person from the SCDA office on King Street, St Catharines.
The Downtown St. Catharines Gift Card is issued by Peoples Trust Company. Card funds are not insured by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) or any other government deposit insurer or agency. Funds do not expire, non-reloadable and no cash access. For Cardholder Agreement or Customer Service: www.getmybalance.com or 1-833-558-1108.
