GE Money and NSGA Introduce Sport Finance Program

MOUNT PROSPECT, IL – “No interest for 90 days on purchases of $199 or more!*” Major retailers have used this promotion countless times in their advertising. It’s another one of those things that makes for an uneven playing field between the “big guys” and the “small guys.” No longer true.

In cooperation with the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA), GE Money is introducing its Finance Program for the Sporting Goods industry that will service even single-store operations.

“The program will allow mid-sized and independent retailers to offer deferred payments to their customers on a card branded to their store,” said Chairman of the NSGA Board of Directors Bruce Ullery, president and CEO of MC Sports, Grand Rapids, Mich. “Such programs increase high-ticket sales and promote store loyalty.”

For NSGA members, the program is an additional sales tool that can turn browsers into buyers. The program features a fast application process with instant credit decisions, accelerated funding of the full purchase amount to the retailer/dealer, and repeat promotional and purchase opportunities through card use.

“In addition to deferred interest and other flexible promotions and terms, the GE Money Sport Finance Program offers many customer benefits that makes the card an attractive choice in the buying process,” said Dennis E. Murphy, vice president and sporting goods industry leader for GE Money – Sales Finance..

Among these:
— The card makes high-end purchases more affordable.
— Customers can enjoy flexible payment options to fit nearly every budget.
— There are no annual fees.
— A simple application and quick approval process make it easy for customers to apply today and buy today.
— Customers can choose among four card designs to reflect their area of interest.

“This dedicated line of credit through GE Money and the sports retailer improves the customer’s cash flow without tying up other financing channels they may use for day-to-day and emergency needs,” Murphy added.

“What makes this program particularly attractive for mid-sized and independent retailers is that it gives them new opportunities to retain their best customers,” said NSGA president & CEO Jim Faltinek. “Retailers and dealers can:
— “Build loyalty with special ‘cardholder only’ sales, anniversary and thank-you offers;
— “Make annual birthday mailers with exclusive offers good through birthday month;
— “Utilize statement marketing as a cost effective way to reach consumers on a monthly basis;
— “Maximize cardholder events to drive repeat sales; and
— “Notify customers of new product introductions and private events.”

The GE Money Finance Program for Sporting Goods will provide all training materials and equipment necessary to get the program up and running. In addition, retailers will receive complimentary in-store marketing materials to help drive sales. For more details on the program and special pricing for NSGA members, contact the NSGA Membership Department, (800) 815-5422, Ext. 131, or e-mail: info@nsga.org.

*Subject to credit approval by GE Money Bank. Certain restrictions apply.