Why you shouldn't buy gift cards as presents this Christmas

With a significant number of national high street shops and store chains in financial difficulties there is a risk the ubiquitous Christmas gift standby will become worthless if the retailer goes into liquidation.

'˜Cards and vouchers may appear to be a reliable standby,' he said '˜but if the business folds it's a safe bet they can kiss their money goodbye.

'˜Although they'll technically become creditors to the business, they're at the bottom of the pile with any claim for a refund from the liquidator if the retailer goes bust.

'˜If gift ideas elude shoppers they should consider gift cards and vouchers as a very last resort and only spend modest amounts on them to minimise their losses in case the business folds.'