MasterCard : Partners with Ministry of Tourism to become the Official Card of The Bahamas

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Thursday, February 27th 2014 - Nassau, Bahamas - MasterCard announced today that, as part of the company's commitment to enhance the experience of cardholders visiting the country is support of the local tourism industry, the company has partnered with the Ministry of Tourism to become the official card of The Bahamas. The announcement was made during an exclusive cocktail event for participating merchants, tourism industry influencers and media at John Watling's Distillery at Buena Vista Estate, in Nassau, Bahamas.

The initiative is part of MasterCard's plan to expand its Priceless Bahamas destinations program and amplify its reach among international tourists. "By becoming the official card, MasterCard will be more involved in the tourism industry and initiatives lead by the Ministry of Tourism throughout 2014", highlighted Lorena Holguin, VP of Marketing for MasterCard in the Caribbean. "We are thrilled with the success of Priceless Bahamas, and are excited to have evolved the program into something much greater," highlighted Holguin. The announcement was particularly meaningful for the MasterCard team as well, as it is timed with the 40th anniversary of the Bahamas.

In addition to re-launching the program in Nassau and Paradise Island in 2014, MasterCard is also expanding it to Grand Bahamas with 15 new merchants. As a result, cardholders will now be able to enjoy offers and discounts at more than 85 participating merchants, which is more than twice the amount of merchants that the program had when it was launched in 2008. Returning major retailers include John Bull, Carlo Milano, Columbian Emeralds and Diamonds International. For a complete list of merchants and program details, please visit http://www.mastercard.com/bs .

"This outstanding program again highlights that there is tremendous value in a Bahamas vacation.  MasterCard's special offers and discounts amount to exceptional added value. When this is combined with the increasingly elevated customer service given by our warm and inviting residents, it is obvious that the overall experience is simply priceless," stated Deputy Director General, Mr. Ellison "Tommy" Thompson.

About MasterCard

MasterCard (NYSE: MA), www.mastercard.com ,is a technology company in the global payments industry. We operate the world's fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. MasterCard's products and solutions make everyday commerce activities - such as shopping, traveling, running a business and managing finances - easier, more secure and more efficient for everyone.@MasterCardNews , join the discussion on the