European card-based payments industry forms new association

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European and global card-based payment solution providers are set to collaborate in forming a new association aimed at strengthening the voice of the industry.

Dubbed Payments Europe, the new organisation emcompasses various areas involved in card-based payment solution such as card issuers, card acquirers, card schemes along with other stakeholders.

Board member, Kurt Gjesten, Card Payment Sweden explained: “This is the first time that the European and global card-based payments industry is coming together in an association to present a common view to EU policy-makers about the issues that matter to our industry. 

“We are confident that our new association will be able to make a real contribution to upcoming EU policy debates.”

Payments Europe presents an opportunity for companies to publicise industry views plus the body will contribute to key policy debates in the EU.

The association will endorse the work and value that the card-based payments sector brings to the European economy.

“With the European payments market going through significant change driven by consumer demand, technological innovation as well as regulation, it is our ambition to showcase the value the card-based payments industry brings to the wider EU economy,” added board member, Francesco Cerlienco, Citi. 

Fellow board member, Roeland Van der Stappen, VISA concluded: “Our clear mission is to support a vibrant, innovative, and competitive European payments market, that is based on a balanced regulatory framework and puts consumers and consumer protection at its heart.”

Payments Europe is based in Brussels and comprises of 13 founding members including: ACCIE (Association of Credit Card Issuers Europe), AirPlus International, APERO (Asociatia de Plati Electronice din Romania), A.S.P.S. (Associazione Prestatori Di Servizi Di Pagamento), Bank of America, BNP Paribas, Card Payment Sweden, Citi, DKB (Deutsche Kreditbank AG), Lloyds Banking Group, Mastercard, Optal and VISA.