In another example of the media becoming merchants, Telemundo and NBC Universal TV Consumer Products have announced that they are launching Visa- and MasterCard-branded gift cards in partnership with InComm. They plan to sell the cards at retail locations. The move is an example of how gift cards enable companies like Telemundo to offer a product other than content and thus tap into a new revenue stream.
The Telemundo gift cards are designed to offer Telemundo fans and Hispanics a convenient financial service from a recognized brand within the community. Offered in a variety of designs, the cards can be a perfect gift for anyone on the gift list. Each Visa or MasterCard gift card will feature Telemundo branding, as well as traditional Hispanic holidays and themes such as Quinceanera and Futbol.
The Telemundo cards also follow the pattern of cards targeted at specific ethnic groups. Other examples include the Rush Card, the Univision card, and the card that will come from the recently announced deal between NetSpend and Black Entertainment Television.
