Target Stores to Become First Retailer of Facebook Credits Gift Cards

Target will become the first retailer of “Facebook Credits” gift cards beginning September 5, 2010.   Target stores nationwide will begin offering the gift cards in increments of $15, $25 and $50.   The cards can also be purchased on Target.com.

More than 200 million people play games on Facebook each month.  (Just ask your friends that are busy tending their crops or leveling up in Mafia Wars.)   Target & Facebook are hoping that the “Facebook Credits” gift card will be an ideal gift this holiday season for those gamers looking to purchase virtual items for their games.

“At Target we strive to delight our guests with exciting, new products every day, so we’re thrilled to be the first retailer to sell Facebook Credits gift cards,” said Mark Schindele, senior vice president, merchandising, Target. “With social gaming becoming increasingly popular, Facebook Credits gift cards provide an easy and convenient option for Target guests to purchase virtual goods.”

“One of Facebook’s goals is to create a great place for games – both for people who love to play and the developers that create fun and engaging social experiences,” said Dan Rose, vice president of partnerships and platform marketing at Facebook. “Gift cards are easy to use and very popular. We’re looking forward to launching in Target stores and giving people the ability to purchase Facebook Credits for their own use or to give as gifts to their friends and family.”

In my opinion this is a great move by Target and we’re sure to see many more retailers following the leader.

My Thoughts on Facebook Credits

Facebook Credits will soon have the potential to be exchanged as real world currency and I’m willing to bet that we’ll see “Facebook Credits” credit cards that can be used at retail stores  to pay for physical goods (similar to the way that people use pre-paid credit cards).

It helps that they have over 500 million worldwide users,  so “selling” the Facebook Credits idea to brick and mortar businesses becomes a little easier.