More Australians are asking for gift cards over physical gifts at Christmas time.

New research by Blackhawk indicates as many as four out of five consumers would prefer a voucher.

Senior Director of Marketing Marc Cheah told Joe Hildebrand gift cards are a practical approach to the giving season.

“There’s issues around access to retail, there’s issues around supply chain issues, which has really, from my standpoint, stimulated the market for gift cards.

“I think over the last couple of years, people have really come around to not wasting time, effort or money and just prefer to gift people something they’d actually use and want.”

Press PLAY below to hear Mr Cheah’s advice on gift card etiquette 

Image: Getty