KIDFUTURES FORMS PARTNERSHIPS WITH MASTERCARD CANADA, ALLIANZ
By Adnews Staff
Consumer loyalty program KidsFutures has formed a partnership agreement with MasterCard Canada and an asset management relationship with Allianz Education Funds. KidsFutures, which will launch this fall, offers members cash contributions towards their children's college or university education. Members register a MasterCard or debt card number with the program, then receive rewards by buying products and service from participating companies including AOL, Best Western, Budget Car and Truck Rental, Cineplex Odeon, Pizza Hut, Centreville and CompuSmart. The funds are deposited in a Registered Educational Savings Plan managed by Allianz. Graham Farrell, vice-president of marketing for KidsFutures, said a consumer advertising campaign will begin in mid-September with the goals of building awareness of the program and promoting the other companies involved. Accordin to Farrell, the company has not yet determined if it will hire a creative agency. Media planning and buying will be handled by Wills & Company. Public relations are being handled by Weber Shandwick Worldwide.