At Crunch, we don’t just create innovative solutions like Giftstarr; we also understand the power of visual storytelling through gift card programme marketing.

Recently, we had the pleasure of heading to the iconic Metrocentre in Gateshead, to capture the energy and impact of their revitalised Giftstarr gift card programme. As one of our newest partnerships, and one of the largest shopping centres in Europe; our team thoroughly enjoyed bringing the Metrocentre experience to the small screen for all to see.

“We had a great day at Metrocentre. It was insightful to capture the product in-situ; enabling potential clients to visualise their own product with us. Through the gift card programme marketing material we created, we truly conveyed their unique position within the retail sector, showing what makes them an industry leader and key innovator.” 

Keeley Sunley, Customer Success at Giftstarr.

During the production day, our team captured the vibrant atmosphere of the Metrocentre and the positive reception to the newly designed gift cards. From the sleek new aesthetic to the seamless integration within the centre, we highlighted the tangible benefits for both shoppers and retailers. Take a sneak peek into our gift card programme marketing process, by checking out the behind the scenes of the day.

Watch the video below…

Metrocentre’s programme in action

The final product easily portrays how the gift card’s modern and eye-catching design resonates with shoppers, and how easily it can be used across the centre’s diverse range of vendors.

For Metrocentre, the gift card isn’t just a payment method; it’s an extension of their brand and a driver of customer engagement. As our previous blog post highlighted, the Giftstarr-powered programme has allowed Metrocentre to enhance the overall shopping experience. In January 2025 alone, gift card sales rose by 7% compared with the previous year.

Just as Giftstarr helps Metrocentre enhance their customer engagement and drive revenue, we aim to support our clients in showcasing their achievements in impactful ways. Whether it’s through highlighting a successful gift card programme or capturing the essence of a partnership, we’re here to help tell your story.

About Giftstarr

Giftstarr is a leading provider in gift card solutions having issued millions of gift cards globally to help shopping centres boost revenue and build customer loyalty.

Giftstarr’s innovative solutions offer seamless integration whilst their personalised features and a user-friendly interface enhances customer engagement and satisfaction. Giftstarr supports shopping centres and retailers by providing a flexible and scalable solution that caters to both personal and corporate gifting demands, including online purchasing channels for an instant, digital way to buy gift cards.

With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Giftstarr empowers shopping centres to elevate the customer experience while offering the convenience and versatility of modern gifting.

About Metrocentre 

One of the most extensive multi-use destinations in Europe, and the dominant centre in the North East, Metrocentre welcomes nearly 16m visitors a year, drawn to its 270 retail brands. Metrocentre’s full day-out experience is made possible by its five distinct malls, catering to every visitor purpose. Red Mall houses fashion and international brands, including Zara, River Island, and Reiss, anchored by a landmark combined unit for Flannels, Sports Direct, and Everlast Gyms. Green Mall has highstreet favourites in M&S, Next, and H Beauty, and will soon be home to an exciting leisure concept and family focused hub.

Situated on the banks of the River Tyne, Metrocentre is a powerhouse of the Northeast, contributing around £900 million each year to the local and national economy and providing employment for nearly 11,000 people. A hub of the Gateshead community and of the wider region, the centre generates over £10 billion of retail spend online and in-store every year.

One of only eight super-regional out-of-town shopping centres in the UK, Metrocentre is an irreplaceable asset and a significant contributor to the UK economy. 

Gift cards are available via our Customer Services Desks or online via the Metrocentre website. For more details, visit https://themetrocentre.co.uk/