Companies are targeting new areas of spending to attract customers to their rewards programs.
Rewards cards are expanding well beyond just airline miles these days. Beyond the more common travel reward credit cards, there are automobile credit cards, cash back credit cards, and gas credit cards. You can even get affinity credit cards that donate what you spend tied to charities or organizations.
Examples of unique reward cards that have been offered:
Starbucks recently announced the release the Starbucks Bank One Visa reloadable debit card, which will supplement the Starbucks card they released in 2001 that stores Starbucks credit, so you don’t have to grab your wallet every time you want a latte. Every time you use the card, you’ll rack up points that you can use towards Starbucks benefits and rewards.
The Universal Entertainment MasterCard earns reward points to be used towards movie tickets, CDs, and to front-of-the-line passes at Universal Theme Parks.
Our U.K. readers have enjoyed the 007 MasterCard from the Bank of Scotland. It won’t get you onto the set of the next Bond film, but will earn you discounts on your next vacation.
The Wal-Mart MasterCard offered a twist on the reward cards: it featured 0% financing on all Wal-Mart purchases for three months.
The Advanta Computer Platinum Business MasterCard rewarded users with money towards their next computer.
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