More On The Saks Fifth Avenue World Elite MasterCard

"We are pleased to launch this unique co-brand card with such world-class companies as Saks Fifth Avenue and MasterCard," said Joe Hoff, CEO of Retail Services for HSBC. "This card builds on the success we have had in growing the Saks private label card for years, and the great business relationship we also have with MasterCard. We look forward to working closely together to deliver compelling new card services for Saks customers."

"At MasterCard, we evolve our product offerings through a deep understanding and appreciation for the diverse attributes of consumers," said Walt Macnee, President, The Americas, MasterCard Worldwide. The World Elite program is the culmination of extensive planning and research to understand the mindset of today's affluent cardholder. The triumvirate of brands that have come together will provide a truly priceless experience for the Saks customer."

The Saks Fifth Avenue World Elite MasterCard card maintains an affiliation with Saks Fifth Avenue's SaksFirst loyalty rewards program, with added benefits. Customers who qualify for the card will be automatically enrolled in SaksFirst once they acquire the Saks Fifth Avenue World Elite MasterCard card versus having to spend $1,000 in the calendar year on their current Saks Fifth Avenue card.

SaksFirst cardholders enjoy some of the richest rewards found in any loyalty program. SaksFirst members will earn even more SaksFirst rewards by using their Saks Fifth Avenue World Elite MasterCard card for all their purchases anywhere MasterCard is accepted. Customers will enjoy up to 6% back on their Saks Fifth Avenue purchases and 1% back on all other purchases outside of Saks Fifth Avenue. Customers' points will be converted automatically into Saks Fifth Avenue Electronic Gift Cards good for merchandise at Saks.

The rewards and benefits go far beyond SaksFirst points. In keeping with Saks Fifth Avenue's tradition of offering superlative customer service, Saks Fifth Avenue World Elite MasterCard cardholders will have the following travel benefits:

• Access to unparalleled global travel expertise provided by Virtuoso, a widely acclaimed network of more than 6,000 member travel consultants that specialize in connecting the world's most discerning travelers with the world's finest vacation destinations. Virtuoso provides travel benefits exclusively for World Elite MasterCard, including the Saks Fifth Avenue World Elite MasterCard card. Cardholders will receive unparalleled services and counsel by a designated Virtuoso member consultant while enjoying exclusive travel benefits, value-added amenities and one-of-a-kind experiences.
• Complimentary companion tickets with the purchase of full fare Business Class tickets for international travel (depending on the airline and space permitting with no blackout dates).
• Tailored shore excursions and private cocktail receptions on four premier cruise lines.
• Preferred rates and availability at over 650 of the finest hotels, resorts, lodges, and villas in the world. Value-added amenities including complimentary daily breakfast for two, room upgrades (based on availability at time of check-in), late check-in, late check-out, hotel dining credits and customized offerings that are unique to the destination and VIP status. Additional suite promotions at 150 Five-Star properties, including priority availability, preferred rates and customized amenities.
• Complimentary subscriptions to dynamic, award-winning travel publications, Virtuoso Life and the Best of the Best hotel directory.
• Special event access and tickets to performing arts and theater events; restaurants; art galleries; and spas in ten major U.S. cities including: New York, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Seattle and Washington D.C.
• Airport lounge access for a nominal fee in over 500 lounges around the world; and complimentary value-added benefits at hotels, resorts and cruise lines.

Pre-registration for a card application is available immediately for current Saks Fifth Avenue private label cardholders as well as for all new customers.