Custom Gift Card Printing: Branded Cards Your Customers Will Love

Welcome to Plastic Card ID: Your Custom Gift Card Printing Experts

What if a small plastic card could double your retail sales almost overnight? That might sound bold, but businesses across the country have discovered exactly that kind of result after switching to professionally printed plastic gift cards. At Plastic Card ID, we have spent over 25 years helping more than 100,000 businesses turn simple cards into powerful tools for growth, loyalty, and lasting brand recognition.

We ship custom plastic cards, card printers, and all the refill supplies you need directly to your door, anywhere in the country. Whether you are a small boutique or a large chain, our team is ready to craft the perfect solution for your business. Reaching us is simple and fast - just call 800-835-7919 to get started today.

Our product line goes far beyond basic printing. We design and deliver everything from gift cards and loyalty cards to secure ID badges, hotel key cards, and specialty metal cards. Every card we produce is built to impress, built to last, and built to keep your brand in the hands - and minds - of your customers.

Why Plastic Gift Cards Outperform Paper Every Time

Paper gift certificates feel temporary. They bend, tear, fade, and often get thrown away before they are ever used. A professionally printed plastic gift card, on the other hand, feels like a small investment - something worth keeping in a wallet for months. That physical durability is one of the biggest reasons retailers who switch to plastic gift cards often see sales increases of up to 100%.

Plastic cards also carry a sense of brand authority. When a customer holds one of our cards, they feel the quality of your business before they ever walk through your door. That first impression is priceless, and it is something a flimsy paper certificate simply cannot deliver. We help you make that impression count every single time.

The Numbers Behind Gift Card Success

The data is clear and convincing: gift cards drive real results. Studies consistently show that gift card programs boost overall sales by 35-50% for businesses that use them well. Customers who redeem gift cards tend to spend more than the card's face value, creating additional revenue that goes straight to your bottom line.

Beyond the immediate sale, gift cards introduce new customers to your business. When someone receives your card as a gift, they may have never visited your store before. That card becomes your best marketing tool, bringing fresh faces through your door with money already in hand. We help you design cards that make this process feel seamless and professional.

From First Order to Happy Customer - Our Simple Process

Getting started with us is refreshingly easy. You share your design ideas, logo, and card details with our team, and we handle the rest. We walk you through every option, from card size and finish to special features like magnetic stripes or barcodes. Our goal is to make the entire experience smooth and stress-free from the very first call.

We also offer fast turnaround times and nationwide shipping, so you never have to wait long to get your cards in hand. Our packaging is careful and professional, arriving exactly as ordered. Everything we do is designed to save you time and help you launch your gift card program with confidence and speed.

Our Full Range of Custom Plastic Card Solutions

Our Full Range of Custom Plastic Card SolutionsWe are proud to offer one of the most complete card product lines available anywhere in the country. From sleek gift cards and reward cards to advanced RFID smart cards and premium metal cards, our catalog covers virtually every business need. No matter what kind of card you are looking for, chances are we have already perfected it for someone just like you.

Our strength lies in variety and customization. Every card we produce is tailored specifically to your brand, your audience, and your goals. We do not believe in one-size-fits-all solutions because we know your business is unique. That is why we work closely with each client to deliver cards that truly represent who you are and what you stand for.

Gift Cards, Loyalty Cards, and Reward Programs

Gift cards and loyalty cards are the backbone of many successful customer retention programs. A well-designed loyalty card encourages customers to return again and again, building habits that translate into long-term revenue. Our loyalty cards are printed with precision and built tough enough to survive years of daily wallet use, keeping your brand visible through every swipe and scan.

We also specialize in reward program cards that track points, offer discounts, or unlock exclusive member benefits. These cards create a sense of belonging that customers genuinely value. When people feel rewarded for their loyalty, they share that feeling with friends and family - turning your card program into an organic marketing engine.

Membership, ID, and Credential Cards

Beyond marketing, we produce a wide variety of membership and identity cards that serve organizations of all types. Whether you need professional ID badges for your staff, alumni cards for your university, or union credentials for your workforce, our cards are designed to communicate authority, trust, and belonging. These cards are not just functional - they carry real meaning for the people who hold them.

Security is a top priority in everything we produce for this category. Our ID cards can be printed with photos, barcodes, magnetic stripes, and other verification features that help keep your organization safe. We understand that these cards represent more than identity - they represent access, responsibility, and professional pride.

Hotel Key Cards, Casino Player Cards, and RFID Smart Cards

For businesses that need advanced access control or contactless technology, our specialty card line is second to none. We produce hotel key cards that work seamlessly with standard door lock systems, casino player cards loaded with tracking capabilities, and RFID smart cards featuring contactless technology like MIFARE DESFire. These cards combine high-end function with stunning visual design.

RFID and contactless cards are becoming increasingly popular across many industries because they offer fast, reliable access without the wear and tear of traditional swipe cards. We stay current with the latest card technologies so our clients always receive products that are modern, effective, and built for real-world use. Call 800-835-7919 to learn more about our smart card options and find the right fit for your business.

Card Printers and Supplies - Everything You Need in One Place

Printing your own cards in-house has never been easier, thanks to our complete lineup of card printers and refill supplies. Whether you need a compact desktop printer for small batches or a high-volume unit for continuous production, we carry the equipment to match your output needs and budget. We ship everything nationally, so no matter where your business is located, we have you covered.

We believe in making the in-house printing experience as smooth as possible. That means offering not just printers, but every accessory and supply you need to keep them running at peak performance. From ribbons and cleaning kits to blank card stock and software support, we are your one-stop shop for the complete card printing experience.

Popular Card Printer Models and Features

Our card printer selection includes models from trusted manufacturers, ranging from entry-level units ideal for small businesses to professional-grade printers capable of handling thousands of cards per day. Some of our most popular printers include single-sided and dual-sided models, retransfer printers for edge-to-edge printing, and wireless-enabled units for flexible office setups.

  • Single-sided desktop card printers - perfect for small offices and quick ID badge runs
  • Dual-sided printers - ideal for membership cards that need information on both faces
  • Retransfer printers - deliver sharp, full-bleed images for premium card quality
  • High-volume printers - designed for large organizations with continuous printing needs
  • Wireless and network-ready models - for flexible, connected workplaces

Choosing the right printer is an important decision, and our team is here to help you make it confidently. We ask the right questions about your volume, card types, and budget to recommend a printer that fits perfectly without overspending. That personalized guidance is something you simply will not find from a generic online retailer.

Ribbons, Blank Cards, and Refill Supplies

A card printer is only as good as the supplies running through it. We stock a comprehensive inventory of color ribbons, monochrome ribbons, overlay ribbons, and combo ribbon panels designed to work with all major printer brands. Our blank card stock comes in standard CR80 size as well as specialty thicknesses and finishes to suit a wide range of printing applications.

We also carry cleaning kits, adhesive cleaning rollers, and replacement print heads to keep your printer running smoothly for years. Regular maintenance supplies are often overlooked, but they are essential for protecting your investment and ensuring consistent print quality on every single card you produce. We make it easy to order everything you need in one place, at any time.

Custom Carriers, Sleeves, and Mailing Services

A beautifully printed card deserves equally impressive packaging. We offer custom card carriers, protective sleeves, and presentation folders that complement your card design and elevate the unboxing experience for your customers. These finishing touches turn a simple card into a memorable brand moment that recipients genuinely appreciate and remember.

For businesses that want a completely hands-off fulfillment solution, we offer full-service card affixing and mailing. We can attach your cards to custom carriers and mail them directly to your customer list on your behalf. This saves you enormous time and labor while ensuring every card arrives looking polished, professional, and on brand.

Why Businesses Across the Country Choose Plastic Card ID

Why Businesses Across the Country Choose Plastic Card IDWe have been in this business long enough to understand what our clients truly need: reliable quality, fast delivery, and a partner who genuinely cares about their success. With more than 50 million cards sold and a client base that spans virtually every industry, we have earned a reputation built on results rather than promises. That track record is what continues to bring new clients to us every single day.

Our approach is personal. We do not treat orders as transactions - we treat them as the beginning of a long-term relationship. Many of our clients have been with us for years, returning order after order because they trust our quality and value the service we provide. That loyalty from our clients is the greatest compliment we could ever receive.

Card TypeBest UseKey Feature
Gift CardsRetail and hospitalityBoosts sales by 35-50%
Loyalty CardsCustomer retention programsEncourages repeat visits
ID BadgesStaff and access controlEnhances security
RFID Smart CardsHotels, events, campusesContactless convenience
Metal CardsLuxury brands and VIP programsUnforgettable first impression

A Legacy of Quality and Trust

Our story is built on more than 25 years of consistent quality and innovation. Every card we produce goes through a thorough quality check before it ever reaches a shipping box. We use premium materials, industry-leading printing technology, and experienced production staff to ensure that what arrives at your door is exactly what you envisioned - or better.

Trust is not built overnight, and we have not taken ours for granted. The relationships we have developed with over 100,000 businesses are a direct result of our commitment to doing things right, every single time. We stand behind every product we ship and are always just a phone call away if you need assistance with anything related to your order.

Nationwide Shipping - Fast and Reliable

No matter where your business is located, we deliver directly to you. Our nationwide shipping network means that a boutique in Vermont gets the same fast, reliable service as a resort in California. We understand that timing matters in business, and we work hard to make sure your cards arrive when you need them, packaged with care.

We offer multiple shipping options to fit different timelines and budgets, from standard delivery to expedited rush shipping for time-sensitive orders. Our team keeps you informed every step of the way, so you always know exactly where your order stands. Reliable communication is part of the service we are proud to provide to every single client we serve.

Dedicated Support From Real People

When you call us, you talk to a real person who knows our products inside and out. We do not route you through endless automated menus or make you wait days for an email reply. Our team is knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely invested in helping you find the right solution for your specific needs. That human connection is something we consider essential to everything we do.

Whether you are placing your very first order or reordering for the hundredth time, you will always receive the same high level of attention and care. We believe that great service is not a special occasion - it is a standard that every client deserves every time they reach out to us. Call us today at 800-835-7919 and experience the difference firsthand.

Specialty Cards That Make an Unforgettable Statement

Sometimes a standard card just does not capture the boldness of your brand. For those moments, we offer a remarkable lineup of specialty card options that push the boundaries of what a plastic card can be. These are not ordinary cards - they are conversation starters, brand anchors, and status symbols rolled into one sleek, pocketable package.

Our specialty cards are popular with luxury retailers, exclusive membership clubs, high-end hotels, and businesses that want their brand to feel genuinely premium. When your customer pulls out one of these cards, the reaction is immediate and lasting. That kind of impression has real value - the kind that keeps customers coming back and talking about your brand to others.

Clear Plastic and Custom Shape Cards

Our clear plastic cards are visually striking in a way that immediately sets them apart from any card your customer has ever seen. The transparent design creates a modern, high-tech look that works beautifully for tech companies, spas, fashion brands, and any business that wants to project a cutting-edge image. Combined with bold printing, the results are truly eye-catching.

Custom shape cards take personalization to an entirely new level. We can cut cards into virtually any shape - a bottle silhouette for a winery, a house shape for a real estate firm, or a pet paw for a veterinary clinic. These die-cut shapes reinforce your brand identity in a memorable way that standard rectangular cards simply cannot match. Creativity has no ceiling when you work with our team.

Luxury Metal Cards - The Ultimate Brand Statement

Nothing communicates prestige quite like a metal card. Crafted from stainless steel, gold-toned materials, and other premium metals, our luxury card options deliver a weight and feel that is completely unlike anything made from plastic. When a client receives a metal membership card or VIP access card from your brand, they know instantly that they are dealing with a business that takes quality seriously.

Metal cards are incredibly durable and virtually indestructible under normal use, meaning they stay in wallets and drawers for years - keeping your brand visible long after the initial impression. They are ideal for executive loyalty programs, exclusive club memberships, VIP reward tiers, and any situation where you want to leave an absolutely unforgettable mark on your most valued customers.

Postcard Mailers That Actually Get Noticed

Our plastic postcard mailers are a unique marketing tool that consistently outperforms traditional paper mail. These hybrid mailers include a detachable plastic card - a gift card, loyalty card, or offer card - right inside the mailer itself. The result is a direct mail piece that recipients are far more likely to open, read, and respond to. In fact, our plastic postcard mailers achieve double the response rates of standard paper mailers.

This makes them an incredibly smart investment for businesses looking to acquire new customers or re-engage existing ones. The combination of a physical card with a compelling offer is simply hard to ignore. We handle the full production of these mailers, from printing the card to assembling the complete mailing piece, making the entire process effortless for you and your marketing team.

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Gift Card Printing

We hear great questions every day from business owners who are new to custom gift card printing and want to make sure they are making the right choice. We love those questions because they give us a chance to share our knowledge and help clients feel confident in the decisions they are making. Here are some of the most common things people ask us when they get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Gift Card Printing

If you do not see your question answered here, we encourage you to call us directly. Our team is always happy to spend time talking through the details with you, no matter how simple or complex your question may be. We have heard just about everything over the past 25-plus years, and we genuinely enjoy helping business owners find the right solution for their specific situation.

How Many Cards Should I Order to Get Started?

This is one of the most common questions we receive, and the honest answer depends on the size of your business and how you plan to distribute your cards. We offer flexible order quantities to accommodate everything from small pilot programs to large-scale launches. You do not have to commit to tens of thousands of cards right away - we are happy to help you start at a scale that feels comfortable and grow from there.

That said, larger order quantities typically come with better per-card pricing, so many businesses find it makes sense to order a few months' worth of cards at once. We can help you calculate a smart starting quantity based on your foot traffic, customer base, and promotional plans. Just bring your questions to the call and we will walk through the numbers together.

What Information or Design Do I Need to Provide?

Getting started is easier than most people expect. Ideally, you will have your business logo in a high-resolution format and a general idea of the colors and feel you want your card to project. If you have an existing brand style guide, that is very helpful. But even if you are starting from scratch, our design team can guide you through the process step by step.

We accept a wide range of file formats and can work with designs at various stages of completion. Whether you have a fully finished design or just a rough idea on a napkin, we are equipped to help you turn it into a beautiful, print-ready card. Our goal is to make the design process feel exciting rather than overwhelming, and we pride ourselves on delivering results that consistently exceed expectations.

Can I Reorder Cards With the Same Design Later?

Absolutely - and many of our clients do exactly that. Once we have your design on file, reordering is fast, simple, and hassle-free. Your artwork is stored securely on our end so you never have to start the design process over again. Simply call us, confirm your quantity and any changes, and we get your reorder into production right away.

Some clients update their card design seasonally for holiday promotions or special events, while others keep the same design for years. Either way, we make the reordering process as smooth and efficient as possible. We know that your time is valuable, and we respect it by keeping your account details organized and ready whenever you need them.

Real Business Results: What Our Clients Experience

The proof is always in the results, and our clients have experienced some truly remarkable outcomes after launching card programs with our help. Across retail, hospitality, fitness, food service, and many other industries, we have seen our cards transform the way businesses connect with their customers and grow their revenue. These are not just feel-good stories - they are measurable, repeatable successes.

We take genuine pride in the role we play in our clients' growth. When a boutique retailer tells us that their gift card program brought in 30 new customers in the first month, or when a gym reports that their loyalty card boosted membership renewals by 40%, we feel the weight and meaning of that feedback. It reminds us every day why this work matters and why we continue to pour so much care into every order we fulfill.

Case Study: A Retail Boutique Doubles Its Gift Card Revenue

One of our long-term retail clients had been using paper gift certificates for years before switching to custom plastic gift cards through our program. Within the first three months of making the switch, their gift card sales nearly doubled. Customers responded enthusiastically to the professional look and feel of the new cards, and staff noticed that customers were spending more at redemption than the card's face value in most cases.

The boutique owner credited three main factors for the improvement: the visual quality of the card, the ease of presenting them as gifts, and the fact that customers were keeping the cards in their wallets rather than losing them at the bottom of a drawer. These are exactly the kinds of advantages that plastic consistently delivers over paper, and they show up in revenue numbers that make a real difference for small business owners.

Case Study: A Fitness Studio Builds Lasting Member Loyalty

A regional fitness studio approached us wanting a loyalty card program that would help reduce member churn and reward their most dedicated clients. We designed a clean, motivational card featuring their brand colors and a point-tracking feature tied to their management software. The response from members was immediate and overwhelmingly positive - people loved having a tangible reward for their hard work.

Within six months, the studio reported a measurable increase in membership renewals among cardholders compared to non-cardholders. Members who carried the card visited more frequently and were more likely to refer friends to the studio. The program paid for itself many times over in its first year alone, proving that a well-executed loyalty card strategy is one of the smartest investments a fitness business can make.

Key Benefits Our Clients Report Most Often

  • Increased average transaction value when gift cards are redeemed
  • Higher rate of new customer acquisition through gifting
  • Stronger customer retention through loyalty and reward programs
  • Improved brand perception and professional image
  • Greater marketing ROI compared to paper-based alternatives
  • Faster, more convenient in-store transactions using card-based systems

These results are not accidents - they are the natural outcome of combining a proven product with the right strategy. We help our clients think through their card programs thoughtfully so that every design decision and feature choice is aligned with their business goals. When the card is right and the program is well-executed, the results speak loudly and clearly for themselves.

Industries We Proudly Serve With Custom Plastic Cards

Industries We Proudly Serve With Custom Plastic CardsOur clients come from virtually every corner of the business world. We work with small independent shops, national retail chains, hotels and resorts, healthcare providers, fitness centers, restaurants, universities, government agencies, and everything in between. If your business involves people, chances are we have already helped a business just like yours achieve great results with a custom card program.

The diversity of industries we serve is a direct reflection of how universally valuable a well-made plastic card can be. Every business needs to build loyalty, manage identity, control access, or deliver a memorable brand experience - and a custom card is one of the most effective, affordable, and lasting tools available to accomplish all of those goals simultaneously.

Retail, Restaurants, and Hospitality

These industries represent the core of our business, and for good reason. Gift cards are the number-one requested gift item for retail and restaurant customers, making them an absolute must-have for any business in these sectors. Our gift cards are designed to be displayed attractively at point of sale, given as gifts, loaded and reloaded digitally, and used seamlessly at checkout.

Hotels and resorts benefit from our full suite of card products, including branded key cards, VIP member cards, gift cards for on-property spending, and loyalty cards that encourage return stays. We understand the hospitality industry's high standards for presentation and functionality, and every card we produce for this sector reflects that understanding in every detail.

Healthcare, Fitness, and Wellness

Patient ID cards, member access badges, appointment reminder cards, and loyalty reward cards are just a few of the card types we regularly produce for the healthcare and wellness sector. These industries value accuracy, professionalism, and durability - all qualities that define every card that leaves our production floor. Our cards help these businesses run more efficiently while delivering a polished experience to their patients and members.

Fitness clubs, yoga studios, spas, and wellness centers have discovered that loyalty and membership cards create a deeper emotional connection between their brand and their clients. When someone carries your studio's card in their wallet every day, your brand stays present in their life even when they are not on your premises. That constant, subtle reminder is one of the most powerful passive marketing tools available.

Education, Nonprofits, and Organizations

Universities, alumni associations, nonprofit organizations, unions, and professional associations all rely on our expertise to produce cards that communicate belonging, credibility, and pride. Alumni cards, student ID badges, donor recognition cards, and union credentials are produced to the highest standards of quality and security so that every cardholder feels the significance of what they are carrying.

We understand that for many organizations, these cards are more than just identification - they are symbols of membership in something meaningful. That awareness shapes the care and attention we bring to every organizational card project we accept. We are honored to play a small but important role in helping these communities maintain their connections and celebrate their identities.

How to Order From Plastic Card ID - Simple, Fast, and Nationwide

Ordering from us could not be easier. The process begins with a single phone call where we learn about your business, your goals, and the type of card program you have in mind. From there, our team guides you through design choices, features, quantities, and delivery timelines so that every detail is clear before production ever begins. We believe that a well-informed client is a happy client, and we invest the time upfront to make sure you feel confident every step of the way.

We ship to all 50 states, and our production timelines are among the fastest in the industry. Rush orders are available for clients who need their cards quickly, and standard orders are handled with the same urgency and precision. From the moment you place your order to the moment it arrives at your door, we keep communication open and transparent so you always know exactly what is happening with your project.

Placing Your First Order

Your first order sets the tone for everything that follows, and we take that responsibility seriously. We walk every new client through our full product lineup to make sure they are aware of all the options available to them before making a decision. This consultation process often reveals features or card types that clients had not initially considered but end up being exactly what their business needs.

Once you have decided on your card type, design, and features, we prepare a proof for your approval before going to production. This step ensures that what we print is exactly what you envisioned. We do not move forward until you are fully satisfied with the proof, because your satisfaction is the foundation of the long-term relationship we want to build with you.

Reorders and Ongoing Supply Management

Managing your card inventory does not have to be complicated. Many of our clients set up a simple reorder schedule that keeps their supply consistent without any last-minute scrambles. We are happy to help you think through a supply management approach that fits your business volume and ensures you never find yourself running low on cards at a critical moment.

Because we maintain your artwork and account details on file, reorders are processed quickly and accurately. A quick call or message is all it takes to trigger your next production run. We pride ourselves on being the kind of vendor that makes your job easier, not harder, with every interaction you have with our team.

Call Us Now and Get the Conversation Started

Ready to see what a custom card program can do for your business? Call PCID right now at 800-835-7919 and let us show you just how easy it is to get started. Our friendly team is standing by and genuinely excited to help you design the perfect card solution for your specific goals and budget.

Close the Gap Between Your Brand and Your Customers

Close the Gap Between Your Brand and Your CustomersIn a world that often feels overwhelmingly digital, there is something genuinely powerful about putting a physical card in someone's hand. It signals investment, intention, and quality. It says your brand is real, it is here, and it is worth keeping. That is the kind of statement that no email, notification, or social media post can replicate - and it is exactly what we help businesses communicate every single day.

The gap between a forgettable transaction and a loyal customer relationship is often smaller than businesses realize. A beautifully designed gift card, a well-crafted loyalty program, or a premium membership card can bridge that gap in ways that are both measurable and lasting. We have seen it happen thousands of times, and we are confident we can help it happen for your business too.

The Enduring Power of a Physical Card

Digital loyalty apps get deleted. Emails go unread. Paper certificates get lost or thrown away. But a durable, well-designed plastic card stays in a wallet for months, sometimes years. Every time your customer opens that wallet, your brand is right there - present, tangible, and ready to be used. That kind of persistent brand exposure is extraordinarily difficult to replicate through any other medium at the same low cost.

We have clients who have been using the same card design for years because it continues to work beautifully for their business. The initial investment in a great card design and a solid card program pays dividends far beyond what most business owners initially expect. Once you see the results firsthand, you will wonder why you ever relied on anything less.

Building Long-Term Relationships Through Card Programs

A gift card is a transaction. A loyalty card is a relationship. That distinction matters enormously in how you think about your card program and what you hope to achieve with it. We help clients design programs that move customers along a natural journey - from first-time buyer to loyal regular to enthusiastic advocate - using cards as the thread that ties that experience together.

When customers feel seen, rewarded, and connected to your brand, they stay longer and spend more. They also bring others with them. A thoughtfully designed card program is one of the most cost-effective ways to build that kind of deep, lasting customer relationship. We bring 25-plus years of experience to every program we help design, and we put all of it to work for you from day one.

Your Brand Deserves a Card That Reflects Its Value

We genuinely believe that every business deserves to present itself at its very best. The cards you hand to your customers are a direct reflection of how you feel about your own brand. When those cards are beautifully designed, professionally printed, and made from high-quality materials, the message they send is unmistakable: this is a business that cares, and that is worth coming back to.

We pour the same pride into every order we fulfill, whether it is 500 cards for a small boutique or 50,000 cards for a regional chain. Every client matters to us equally, and every card that leaves our facility represents our commitment to quality and to the success of the business that ordered it. That commitment is at the heart of everything we do, and it is what has kept our clients coming back for over a quarter of a century.

Get Started Today With Plastic Card ID - Call Now

There has never been a better time to invest in a custom plastic card program for your business. Gift cards, loyalty cards, ID badges, smart cards, specialty cards - whatever your need, we have the expertise, the technology, and the passion to deliver exactly what you are looking for. Our team is ready, our production line is running, and all we are waiting for is your call.

Plastic Card ID has helped over 100,000 businesses across the country unlock the power of professionally printed plastic cards. We have shipped more than 50 million cards, and every single one of them has carried with it our unwavering commitment to quality, precision, and client satisfaction. Now it is your turn to experience the difference that a real expert can make for your brand.

Do not let another season pass without a gift card program, a loyalty card strategy, or the professional identity cards your team deserves. The opportunity is right in front of you, and our team is here to make the process simple, affordable, and genuinely exciting. Call PCID right now at 800-835-7919 and let us get to work for you. Your customers are waiting - and so are we.