GE Money has opened an online "business center" for its CarCareONE credit card customers.
The center lets dealers process transactions and track customers' purchases, says Mike Mattevi, vice president of automotive business for GE Money, which announced the program during this week's Global Tire Expo - Powered by TIA/Specialty Equipment Market Association Show.
"It also gives them access to promotional materials. They can create promotional postcards with the click of a mouse. We'll do all of the printing, production and mailing," both paper and e-mail. "They create the postcard... they pick the offer they want (to promote)." In addition, the center offers online classes.
"If there is a message I want to get out, it's that getting that piece of plastic in a customer's wallet creates a regular stream of customers," says Mattevi.
There has never been a better time to offer credit card options to consumers, he adds. "We're seeing even more interest in financing solutions" due to the still-struggling economy.
"In 2008, 60% of all total (retail) purchases in the United States were made on lines of credit."
