WILMINGTON, Del.– MBNA has begun issuing credit cards that feature MasterCard PayPass contactless payment technology to its new and existing customers in Atlanta, with customers in additional markets to follow in the coming months.
PayPass integrates a radio frequency chip and antennae in the card plastic. Cardholders simply “tap” their cards on specially equipped merchant terminals to pay. PayPass eliminates the need for consumers to fumble for cash and coins, hand over their payment card to a clerk or swipe it through a reader. And since most purchases under $25 do not require a signature, PayPass ensures fast and convenient transactions at places like fast food restaurants, gas stations, movie theaters, and convenience stores.
The MBNA credit cards also contain the traditional magnetic stripe, so cardholders can use the cards anywhere MasterCard is accepted around the world. They provide consumers with the same zero-liability protections as conventional payment cards and come in a variety of unique designs – from ones just for fans of the Atlanta Braves to those for students and alumni of the University of Georgia.
With every purchase, cardholders earn points toward cash, travel and merchandise in the WorldPoints program. The customers pay No Annual Fee for this great program.
MBNA selected Atlanta to launch the product because hundreds of merchants in that area have already installed the specially equipped terminals, enabling cardholders to speed through checkout during their daily routines.
“We’re always looking for new ways to make everyday life easier for MBNA Customers, “said MBNA Group Executive David Turner. “Like our rewards programs, MasterCard PayPass is another way we’re giving Customers the greatest value and convenience. And we’re excited at how fast the list of merchants who have committed to accepting PayPass continues to grow.”
“MasterCard PayPass is simpler and faster than cash, thereby speeding consumers through the check-out process,” said Cathleen Conforti, senior vice president and Global PayPass Product Manager, MasterCard International. “PayPass also provides consumers with better record keeping than cash, and increases their feelings of security, since they remain in control of their cards during all transactions.”
