Does Walgreens Sell Ulta Gift Cards in 2024? The Complete Guide
As a leader in beauty and personal care, Ulta‘s gift cards make excellent presents for makeup, skincare, and hair product lovers. With over 1,300 retail locations across the United States, Ulta is continuing to grow its loyal customer base and brand presence.
But can you grab an Ulta gift card during a usual drugstore run to Walgreens? Unfortunately, no. Walgreens does not sell physical or digital Ulta gift cards in any denomination.
Why Walgreens Doesn‘t Sell Competitor Ulta‘s Gift Cards
Walgreens choosing not to sell rival beauty retailer Ulta’s gift cards primarily comes down to direct competition. As a drugstore focusing on convenient purchases, Walgreens has made beauty and personal care a central part of its in-store and online product mix.
In 2022, Euromonitor International estimates the personal care category accounted for 22% of Walgreens‘ $34 billion in U.S. sales. With Ulta representing a major player in the broader beauty industry, Walgreens offering its competitor‘s gift cards could divert significant sales away from its own stores.
Walgreens Gift Card Sales Breakdown
| Gift Card Type | 2022 Estimated Sales |
|---|---|
| Walgreens Gift Cards | $300+ million |
| Visa/Mastercard Gift Cards | $150+ million |
| American Express Gift Cards | $100+ million |
*Estimated by industry analysts
As shown above, Walgreens brings in over half a billion dollars annually from its own and third-party gift card sales. By not offering Ulta gift cards, Walgreens avoids sending beauty-focused shoppers elsewhere while encouraging more Walgreens gift card purchases instead.
Where You Can Buy an Ulta Gift Card
Just because you can‘t grab an Ulta gift card at the local Walgreens does not mean great gifting options don’t exist. Here is where you can pick up an Ulta gift card today:
Ulta Beauty Stores
The most obvious destination, over 1,300 Ulta stores nationwide sell physical gift cards up to $500.
Ulta‘s Website
Conveniently buy eGift cards to instantly email to recipients or printable cards to give in person. Ulta also offers free shipping for physical gift card orders on its site.
Retailers Like Kroger, Sam‘s Club, and More
Major chains including grocery stores, warehouse clubs, and big-box retailers sell Ulta gift cards at select locations across the country. Availability varies.
So while Walgreens does not sell Ulta gift cards directly due to being a beauty industry competitor, many alternative retailers offer quick, easy ways to purchase Ulta gift cards for the makeup maven in your life.
