Discover and First Data Sign Merchant Processing Agreement

First Data announced that it will be offering Discover Network card acceptance as part of an integrated service to small- and medium-sized merchants.

Under this agreement, First Data will provide processing services to merchants for Discover Network acceptance that promotes a broader range of payment options at the point-of-sale. Merchants, such as restaurants, retailers, and specialty shops, will receive an easy, cost-effective, all-in-one payment processing solution with the convenience of a single source for statements, settlement, and customer service. First Data sales channels will have full responsibility for pricing, processing, settlement, risk management and customer service for the merchant accounts.

First Data says it will begin pilot programs in selected geographic areas early this summer, with full market deployment coming in Q4 2006.