Relationship Kicks Off with New Apple Pay Focused Ad Spot  "Launching" Priceless Surprises

To tweet this news, copy and paste http://news.mstr.cd/1zhNz4D with #PricelessSurprises

PURCHASE, N.Y. - December 8, 2014 - Grammy® Award-winner Gwen Stefani is taking control of the Priceless Surprises launcher to help surprise cardholders every time they swipe, dip, tap or click with their MasterCard. Stefani has teamed up with MasterCard to deliver truly unforgettable experiences and surprises for MasterCard cardholders and Gwen Stefani fans.

To kick things off, MasterCard will debut a new 30 second TV spot today featuring Stefani who, with the help of a "Surprise launcher," sends Priceless Surprises to cardholders paying with their MasterCard with Apple Pay. The spot features Stefani's new song, Spark The Fire.

Surprises include everything from handbags and golf experiences to concert tickets, and even a chance to hang out with Gwen Stefani herself. The spot, directed by Sophie Muller of Wondros, exemplifies what the MasterCard platform is about: surprising cardholders with unbelievable prizes while also inspiring them to give, and share their own Priceless Surprises whether they're paying with traditional credit, debit or prepaid cards or using innovative new payment options like Apple Pay.

"I'm excited to be part of a collaboration that offers me the opportunity to connect and engage with fans through amazing surprises when they least expect it," says Stefani. "MasterCard is a respected global brand and I look forward to working with them to bring something truly unique to fans."

The partnership will bring together MasterCard's expertise in delivering Priceless Surprises with Stefani's extensive influence in music and entertainment for the benefit of fans and cardholders. The partnership between Stefani and MasterCard will translate to private performances, exclusive access to co-created content and unique experiences.

"Gwen Stefani's personal brand, consumer appeal and sheer energy are what make her an ideal partner to serve as an ambassador for our Priceless Surprises platform," said Raja Rajamannar, chief marketing officer, MasterCard. "This platform has really taken hold and is inspiring a movement of Priceless Surprises whereby we're providing unexpected surprises to our cardholders and in turn they are sharing surprises with others in their lives. With Gwen's help we hope to further this movement."

The program will be supported by a fully integrated marketing communications platform that encompasses a wide-reaching media campaign across social, print, radio, television and digital platforms. The campaign will help drive awareness for Priceless Surprises for MasterCard cardholders. The media buy will be focused on outlets that drive engagement, action and amplification with a strong focus on social and digital channels.

For more information on the program, visit PricelessSurprises.com.

Advertising Credits:
Agency: McCann XBC
Production: Wondros
Editorial: Big Sky Editorial

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 Cashless Pioneers Blog and subscribe for the latest news on the Engagement Bureau.

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MasterCard
Sarah Ely
914.249.6714
sarah_ely@mastercard.com

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