GROUPMARK LOOKING FOR SMART CARD BUSINESS
By Adnews Staff
Groupmark Canada Limited of Mississauga, Ont. owns the name Smart Card and is hoping to launch such an item by next September. Currently Groupmark is trying to sign up companies for its particular version of the card, used for withdrawing cash from bank machines and making payments to merchants. A battle is looming with big banks and other financial institutions preparing to launch their own cards. Groupmark is pushing the angles that its card can be used in loyalty programs and as a credit card. The company registered the trademark Smart Card in 1985. Groupmark won't be looking for an ad agency; companies honoring it will be responsible for their own advertising. Groupmark says this type of card is now in wide use in Europe and the Pacific Rim.