Blackhawk Network Launches In UK

"We've become the market leader in third-party gift card programs by bringing the world's best gift card brands into our network, and distributing them through retail channels that more than 100 million consumers shop every week," said Don Kingsborough, president and chief executive officer, Blackhawk Network. "We expect to deliver the same level of excitement and commercial success to our UK-based gift card and retail outlet partners as we have in North America."

Russell Atkinson has been hired as Managing Director of Blackhawk Network, UK. Mr. Atkinson is the current chairman of the UK Electronic Money Association, the main trade body for prepaid products in the United Kingdom. Mr. Atkinson has also held senior sales and marketing positions with Scholl, Johnson & Johnson and Brita.

"Blackhawk Network's easy-to-use formats have been tremendously successful in driving incremental sales, attracting new consumers and enhancing top brands within its network of top North American grocery, drug and convenience store retailers," said Atkinson. "The UK expansion is a natural progression as Blackhawk Network continues to add exciting new distribution channels and a wide selection of international products to its existing portfolio."

"Over the past several months, our team has been laying the foundation in the UK for what will be the premier local destination for shoppers of prepaid products," Kingsborough added. "UK retailers are poised to enjoy the same brand and commercial success as our North American partner network, and we are very pleased with their enthusiastic reception to our UK initiative."