TDS Gift Cards, a division of Ziff Davis, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZD) and a recognized leader in gift card growth solutions, has announced an impactful strategic alliance with Card Compliant, a major force in prepaid card and payment instrument compliance. The collaboration is centered around delivering a comprehensive solution for gift card issuance and program management tailored for dynamic, high-growth digital brands and merchants supported by TDS.
This alliance leverages the newly launched CIMI Card platform, developed by Card Compliant’s affiliate, Card Issuance and Management, Inc. (CIMI). By integrating the capabilities of CIMI Card with TDS Gift Cards’ proven growth management expertise, this collaboration is designed to revolutionize how brands manage, distribute, and expand their gift card programs. Additionally, it ensures full compliance with the ever-evolving regulatory landscape governing prepaid instruments.
Strategic Value of the Alliance
The integration of TDS Gift Cards’ global processing capabilities with CIMI Card’s robust issuance and compliance platform presents a groundbreaking one-stop-shop for merchants. This is particularly crucial in today’s market, where businesses must navigate increasing complexity and stringent regulations. Mutual clients of TDS and CIMI Card gain access to a scalable, turnkey solution that not only simplifies program execution but also amplifies user engagement and profitability.
For over 15 years, TDS Gift Cards has honed its expertise in strategic program management, offering clients a powerful growth-oriented platform. Coupled with Card Compliant’s decades of experience in legal, regulatory, and accounting compliance, the partnership is set to provide a holistic infrastructure for launching and expanding branded gift card initiatives.
Key Benefits for Clients
1. Unified Program Management
Clients will benefit from a seamlessly integrated gift card ecosystem. TDS Gift Cards’ platform, which includes sales channels, redemption solutions, and analytics, now works in harmony with CIMI Card’s compliance-backed issuance services. This fusion allows businesses to operate more efficiently by eliminating the need for multiple vendors.
2. Stronger Regulatory Compliance
CIMI Card’s built-in compliance architecture supports regulatory adherence, particularly with unclaimed property and escheatment laws, which often present complex challenges for businesses issuing gift cards. Clients now have a knowledgeable partner in navigating this legal landscape, significantly lowering the risk of non-compliance.
3. Enhanced User Experience
With TDS Gift Cards’ robust digital capabilities, clients can offer a smooth and intuitive user experience, whether gift cards are purchased online, in stores, or through mobile apps. A superior customer journey leads to higher retention, satisfaction, and acquisition rates.
4. Simplified Operations
From card issuance and distribution to transaction processing, compliance reporting, accounting, and customer service, the combined solution streamlines every operational touchpoint. This efficiency is especially valuable for businesses looking to grow without expanding internal teams.
5. Scalable for Growth
The strategic venture ensures that companies at any growth stage—from startups to international brands—can scale their gift card programs with ease. Whether entering new markets or increasing transaction volumes, the infrastructure adapts to client needs.
6. Actionable Insights and Reporting
Clients benefit from advanced analytics and near real-time reporting, providing a wealth of data for optimizing gift card performance. TDS Gift Cards’ insights, combined with CIMI Card’s regulatory tracking, give businesses unparalleled visibility into program success.
Leadership Perspectives
Jeff Mickeal, Divisional CEO of TDS Gift Cards, emphasized the importance of the alliance: “We are thrilled to align with Card Compliant and integrate the CIMI Card platform into our core offering. This collaboration allows us to bring clients a state-of-the-art, end-to-end gift card growth solution backed by top-tier compliance and issuance capabilities.”
Chuck Rouse, CEO of Card Compliant, shared similar enthusiasm: “TDS Gift Cards’ commitment to innovation and excellence in gift card growth aligns perfectly with CIMI Card’s mission. By joining forces, we create a solution that serves high-growth online and app-based global brands with unmatched value and reliability.”
About TDS Gift Cards
As a Ziff Davis division, TDS Gift Cards specializes in creating scalable, omni-channel gift card solutions for modern businesses. The company helps brands tackle global payment challenges, drive additional revenue, and increase customer acquisition through expertly managed programs that require minimal internal lift.
To learn more, visit www.tdsgiftcards.com.
About Ziff Davis
Ziff Davis (NASDAQ: ZD) is a digital media and internet powerhouse, operating leading brands across sectors such as technology, shopping, gaming, health, cybersecurity, and marketing technology.
More information can be found at www.ziffdavis.com.
About the CIMI Card
Launched in March 2025, the CIMI Card is a flexible, full-service gift card issuance platform engineered by industry experts to support the future of closed-loop gift and loyalty programs. The platform is designed to handle complexities ranging from wallet design and global distribution to transaction processing, data integration, and compliance with hundreds of intricate legal and accounting standards.
CIMI Card represents a next-generation solution, enabling businesses to quickly launch or upgrade their gift card offerings with full confidence in regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Together, TDS Gift Cards and Card Compliant’s CIMI Card platform offer a transformative solution for brands ready to unlock the full potential of gift card programs. With this strategic alliance, businesses are equipped not just for today’s marketplace—but for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
