B2B payments without the pain

Co-branded Komerční banka card lets Makro keep its prices low.

Customers of wholesale retailer Makro Cash & Carry who bank with Komerční banka now have the added convenience of making payments with a new co-branded card that carries the logos of both institutions.

The Makro card (Makro platební karta), launched July 1, is an improved version of the My Key (Můj klíč) card — a Komerční banka debit card that is only valid for use at the wholesale retailer. The company launched the card in February 2002. My Key cards will continue to be honored at Makro stores through the end of the year.

A business-to-business wholesale retail chain, Makro caters to small retailers in 30 countries across Europe and in Morocco. Makro offers groceries and typical department store products to small to midsize businesses at wholesale prices. Until now, the chain, known in most countries as Metro, did not accept regular debit cards because the fees increased costs. The new Makro card will not only increase convenience but offer special benefits for the wholesaler, and give the bank the opportunity to reach a wider clientele through Makro's customer base of small to midsize businesses.

Only companies and individual entrepreneurs with business licenses can become Makro customers. The new Makro card will also serve as clients' admission pass to the store.