Downtown Albany BID launches holiday buy one, get one gift card program
The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District has officially launched its Holiday Buy One, Get One Downtown Albany Gift Card program. For a limited time and while supplies last, the BID will double the value of each purchase with a bonus gift card of equal value, up to $100.
Accepted at more than 35 restaurants, retailers, salons, and barbershops throughout the District, the Downtown Albany Gift Card offers an easy way to shop local and support small businesses this season. The bonus gift card is valid through March 31, 2026. One bonus card is permitted per purchaser, based on credit card use.
The Downtown Albany Gift Card program was first launched in 2021, and the BOGO promotion sells out quickly each time it is offered. The last BOGO deal resulted in the sale of 856 gift cards, with 1,189 unique buyers and 3,039 total purchases in participating stores, averaging 2.6 transactions per card.
According to Yiftee, the service provider behind the program, 51% of cardholders try new spots with their cards. Additionally, cardholders typically spend 30% more than the card amount when using the gift card.
Ideal for holidays, birthdays, graduations, housewarmings, or a simple thank-you, the Downtown Albany Gift Card is also available for bulk purchase—making it a great option for employee rewards or client appreciation while keeping dollars circulating locally.
The Downtown Albany Gift Card now supports Apple Wallet and Google Wallet for an even smoother checkout experience.
Downtown Albany BID Executive Director Georgette Steffens said:
“We’re thrilled to bring back this offer for the holiday season. Our District is home to so many incredible restaurants and shops that benefit directly from programs like this. The Buy One, Get One program supports our small business community by keeping dollars local and encouraging shoppers to visit during traditionally slower winter months. It’s a true win-win-win—our businesses benefit, our consumers get more value, and our community experiences an extra jolt of energy through this program.”
Downtown Albany BID board president and owner of McGreevy ProLab & ProPress, Neil McGreevy, said: “The bonus gift card program is an amazing incentive to bring people into downtown Albany. A $100 gift card match is practically unheard of: what a fantastic offer! It comes at the perfect time of year, when the winter months can be particularly slow for Downtown restaurants and retailers. This brings a much-needed boost.”
Owner of Yono’s and DP an American Brasserie, Dominick Purnomo said:
“We are immensely excited to share the news of the return of the Buy One, Get One (BOGO) Promotion, proudly sponsored by the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID). This program is more than just a discount; it is a direct and powerful investment in the resilience of our local economy. It creates an incredible incentive for residents and visitors to champion the independent, 'mom and pop' businesses concentrated on and around Pearl Street. At a time of heightened consumer price awareness, this BOGO initiative offers unparalleled value, making it an advantageous opportunity for holiday shoppers and gift recipients alike. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Downtown BID, and particularly recognize Georgette's inspiring leadership, for continually finding innovative ways to drive foot traffic and renew engagement with our historically rich downtown area.”
