The Payments Industry & Merchant Credit Card Program Experts
The Payments Industry & Merchant Credit Card Program Experts
SPORT CHALET AND FIRST BANKCARD TEAM UP ON NEW CREDIT CARD PROGRAM
New program provides more ways for Sport Chalet customers to earn more rewards
OMAHA, Neb., and LOS ANGELES,– Sport Chalet, a premier, full-service specialty sporting goods retailer, and First Bankcard, a leading national credit card issuer and a division of First National Bank of Omaha, have teamed up to launch a new Sport Chalet MasterCard® that allows customers to earn more rewards and, in select stores, receive their card instantly.
Initially, three of Sport Chalet’s California stores—La Cañada Flintridge, Torrance and Pleasanton—will feature a new technology platform that allows an actual card to be instantly produced for customers who are approved on the spot at the store. The other stores will all have instant credit available, which means customers can apply, be approved and begin shopping at Sport Chalet prior to receiving their card in the mail. The instant issuance technology is expected to be rolled out to other Sport Chalet stores in 2014.
“Sport Chalet is known for providing expert advice, unparalleled customer service and the products and services that help our customers do all the things they’d rather be doing,” said Craig Levra, Sport Chalet Chairman and CEO. “In First Bankcard, we found a partner that could help us create a custom card program to meet the needs and interests of our customers and ensure a high level of support and service.”
The new card program will be integrated with Sport Chalet’s existing Action PassTM loyalty program, providing extra benefits to card members for both in-store and out-of-store purchases. Sport Chalet MasterCard card members who are not already Action Pass members will have the benefit of automatic enrollment in the Action Pass program.
“This program is designed with Sport Chalet customers in mind, helping make it possible for them to instantly save money on their favorite sports pursuits and activities,” said Stephen F. Eulie, President of First Bankcard. “Sport Chalet knows its customers, and we’re excited to be able to partner with them to build on their legacy of success.”
Sport Chalet MasterCard card members will earn 6 percent in rewards on qualifying purchases at Sport Chalet and 2 percent in rewards on purchases everywhere else, which earn them Action Pass Reward Certificates that can be redeemed for merchandise in stores. Customers who apply in stores and are instantly approved for the card will receive 10 percent off their first in-store purchase. In addition, card members will receive 0 percent interest for six billing cycles every time they make a purchase over $500 at Sport Chalet. Card members also will be able to design and personalize their own cards with a favorite photo of their choosing.
Source: Alliance Data Systems Corporation