Shoppers are eagerly splurging on new outfits and thoughtful gifts for loved ones. As Eid-ul-Fitr—the most significant religious festival—draws near, sales of lifestyle products are surging, driven by heightened consumer demand.

To elevate the shopping experience, banks, mobile financial service (MFS) providers, and digital payment platforms are collaborating with lifestyle brands to offer enticing discounts, cashback rewards, and exclusive deals for transactions made via cards or MFS apps. This collaboration not only promotes cashless payments but also enhances customer convenience, making festive shopping smoother and more rewarding.

Tailored offers and discounts encourage customers to opt for digital transactions over cash, catering to diverse needs across categories such as clothing, jewelry, home and living, and more.

Jahangir Alam Shovon, former executive of e-CAB, said, "Cashless transactions are more prevalent in banks and are mostly preferred by urban dwellers. Currently, 30 to 35 percent of lifestyle shopping occurs through cashless means."

During festive seasons, these offers include exclusive discounts, increased cashback rewards, buy-one-get-one deals, and special promotional campaigns to encourage digital payments. Cashless transactions witness a significant surge during Eid, the peak business season in Bangladesh. "We have observed that cashless transactions during Eid rise by approximately 15 to 20 percent compared to non-Eid months," said an industry insider.

Discussing noticeable changes in consumer behavior regarding lifestyle shopping, Tauhidul Alam, Head of Cards at City Bank, stated, "We are observing a significant increase in consumer confidence when purchasing groceries and lifestyle products online, utilizing digital payment methods." Heightened awareness of cashback and discount offers has led to a higher utilization rate, driving a substantial increase in the average transaction value at the bank.

City Bank offers savings and cashback across a wide array of lifestyle, online shopping, jewelry, and apparel stores during festivals. This Eid, they have extended these offers nationwide, beyond Dhaka, partnering with over 500 merchants and 3,300 outlets. Customers can enjoy up to 50% savings at more than 450 retail stores. Additionally, up to 15% cashback is available at leading lifestyle brands, including Aarong, Bata, Anzara, Yellow, Astorian, Artisan, Sailor, Khan Brothers, and Lubnan.

"To broaden our market reach, we are forming strategic alliances with various brands. This includes introducing co-branded cards, expanding our Membership Rewards redemption network, developing diverse reward voucher programs, and significantly increasing our merchant acceptance network," Tauhidul Alam of City Bank further added. The bank's partnership ecosystem now includes approximately 25,000 partners across all categories.

This Ramadan, BRAC Bank is elevating the festive spirit with exclusive discounts and deals at over 1,200 partner outlets nationwide. To ensure customers enjoy a rewarding and affordable celebration, the bank is offering unparalleled savings across luxury and lifestyle shopping.

Md. Mahiul Islam, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Retail Banking at BRAC Bank, said, "BRAC Bank consistently strives to bring the best deals for our customers on special occasions. Our Ramadan and Eid offers cover all major spending categories, ensuring our customers can celebrate with their loved ones without financial strain."

Jewelry shoppers can also benefit from discounts of up to 35% at more than 30 renowned outlets, including Gitanjali Jewellers, Nakshatra Gold, Tanishq Jewellery, Zaara Gold, and Zaveri Gold. Cardholders can enjoy up to 50% discounts at over 250 lifestyle brands, such as Zaara Fashion Mall, Astorian, Bishworang, Kay Kraft, Tangail Saree Kutir, Deshal, and Viva Creation.

NCC Bank offers a wide range of cashback and savings opportunities. It has partnered with renowned jewelry brands, including D'damas, Tanishq, and Venus Jewelers, offering up to 50% savings. Additionally, the bank has onboarded 10 lifestyle brands and five footwear brands, such as Aarong, Cat's Eye, Sailor, Yellow, Monsoon Rain, Lereve, Bata, Apex, and Bay, providing up to 20% cashback. These exciting offers will be available throughout Ramadan and are valid for Debit, Credit, and Prepaid Cards.

Considering personal wellness, the bank has partnered with 19 beauty lounges and cosmeceuticals, including VLCC, GALA Makeover Studio & Salon by Navin Ahmed, Manly Look, Scissors Hand, and more, offering up to 20% savings on services such as spa treatments, haircuts, and slimming packages.

"Although I rarely get time to visit beauty lounges, I never miss the chance to treat myself during Eid. These cashback and savings offers provide meaningful benefits during the festive season, especially as expenses tend to increase," said Mahran Parvez, a private sector employee and mother.

This Ramadan, Islamic Wallet, the Shariah-based MFS of Al-Arafah Islami Bank, is setting the stage for an extraordinary shopping experience. The Islamic Wallet allows customers to unlock exclusive discounts of up to 20% while shopping online with ease and security.

Imagine browsing your favorite online stores and, with just a few clicks, enjoying significant savings. Whether treating yourself or finding the perfect gifts, customers can avail discounts across platforms such as XCLUS, SneakerPimp, Shopping CornerBD, and GiftKoi. Islamic Wallet also offers up to BDT 5,000 in maximum discounts, exclusively available to customers with an active account and sufficient balance.

"We encourage our customers to keep an eye on our website and social media pages for more details," said Muhammad Shakhawat Ullah, VP & Head of Cards at Al-Arafah Islami Bank.

Jahangir Alam Shovon emphasized the importance of fostering a sustainable ecosystem for cashless transactions, underscoring the need for trust, economic stability, and a shift in people's mindset. "Without these elements, it will be challenging to fully realize the potential of cashless modes," he noted.

Make this Ramadan unforgettable with savings, joy, and a shopping spree like never before.