What do giant jars of mayonnaise, value shoppers and EMV-compliant cards have in common? Starting in 2015 they will all be things one can find at a BJ’s wholesale club. The Massachusetts-based bulk store has inked an agreement with Alliance Data Systems Corporation and MasterCard to provide co-branded credit card services.
The pair-up will not only see BJ’s transitioning to an entirely MaterCard-branded card program, but will also launch BJ’s into the next generation of security preparedness by making the chain EMV compliant. By the spring of 2015, the new and improved credit program will see BJ’s entire credit portfolio converted to chip-enabled cards (usable wherever MasterCard is already accepted).
“We’re proud to partner with BJ’s who shares our commitment to providing cardholders with access to a card program that provides valuable features and benefits while also delivering the security they expect when using our cards,” said MasterCard’s Group Head, US Market Delivery Linda Kirkpatrick, in a statement emailed to PYMNTS. “This conversion showcases the BJ’s foresight into the changing payments landscape within the U.S., as well as evolving consumer expectations of the credit programs delivered to them.”
To make the transition happen smoothly, Alliance will purchase BJ’s existing portfolio of co-brand credit card accounts. This move will enable Alliance to launch a customized marketing and insights-driven co-brand credit card program with BJ’s starting this fall. At press time there were no reports on the purchase price on those accounts.
“BJ’s Wholesale Club is very excited to partner with Alliance Data and MasterCard on our new co-brand credit card program,” said Laura Sen, president and CEO of BJ’s Wholesale Club in a released statement. “Leveraging Alliance Data’s skillset in loyalty and marketing as well as MasterCard’s expertise in technology and security, we are confident our new credit card program will provide a value proposition that is unparalleled in the warehouse club channel.
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