Also Signs Contract Extension for Private Label Credit Card Services

DALLAS, Sept. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Alliance Data Systems Corporation (NYSE: ADS), a leading provider of loyalty and marketing solutions derived from transaction-rich data, today announced it has signed a multi-year agreement with AnnTaylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN) to launch a new co-brand credit card program and to continue providing private label credit card services. The agreement terms include launching a new co-brand MasterCard(R) credit card program and an exclusive points-based rewards program for cardholders.

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The services Alliance Data provides for both the co-brand and private label credit card programs include account acquisition and activation; receivables funding; card authorization; card issuance; statement generation; direct mail and email marketing services; remittance processing; customer service functions; and marketing services. Alliance Data will launch four all-new card-plastic designs for Ann Taylor, including private label and co-brand cards for both the company's Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor LOFT brands. As is consistent with the private label credit card program, the co-brand offering will be targeted to customers that meet Alliance Data's traditional credit quality standards.

Ivan Szeftel, president of Alliance Data's Retail Services, said, 'We are excited about expanding our relationship with Ann Taylor by providing this fully integrated credit and marketing solution. Our programs are guided by analytics and results-oriented marketing principles, and we are leveraging our expertise and the strength of the Ann Taylor brands to deliver a truly special program to their clients.'

About Alliance Data

Alliance Data (NYSE: ADS) is a leading provider of loyalty and marketing solutions derived from transaction-rich data. The Company manages more than 107 million consumer relationships for some of North America's most recognizable companies. Through the creation and deployment of customized solutions that change consumer behavior, Alliance Data enables its clients to create and enhance customer loyalty to build stronger, mutually beneficial relationships with their customers.