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Diners Club International offers a range of benefits and features that make it an attractive option for cardholders.
With Diners Club International, you can earn rewards and points that can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, and other perks.
Travel insurance and assistance are also included, providing peace of mind when exploring new destinations.
Diners Club International has a strong global network, with acceptance in over 185 countries, making it easy to use your card abroad.
A Rich Heritage, Modern
Diners Club has a rich heritage that dates back to its origins as the world's first multipurpose charge card. This pioneering spirit has allowed the brand to evolve into a globally-recognized name.
The company has adapted to changing times, allowing people to enjoy their favorite experiences with the people they love, on their own terms. Clubmembers can use their cards to make the most of their favorite places.
As an issuer, you can tap into the richness of the Diners Club brand to suit the tastes of your local market. This means you can create a unique experience for your customers.
Franchise
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Diners Club International has a complex franchise structure, with various entities owning and operating the brand in different regions.
The international franchise was acquired by Discover Financial Services in 2008 for $165 million, creating a global payment processing system by merging the North American Discover Network with the international Diners Club Network.
Discover has no plans to issue Diners Club-branded cards, which continue to be issued by Diners Club International licensees.
In some regions, Diners Club International cards are issued by local banks, such as Cornèr Banca SA in Switzerland and DC Bank AG in Austria.
The sale of Diners Club International's North American franchise to Bank of Montreal (BMO) in 2009 gave BMO exclusive rights to issue Diners cards in the U.S. and Canada, aligning with its existing commercial card business.
Acquisition by Bmo
In November 2009, Citibank announced that Diners Club International's North American franchise had been sold to Bank of Montreal (BMO). The deal gave BMO exclusive rights to issue Diners cards in the U.S. and Canada.
BMO said the Diners Club fits well with its existing commercial card business, which is one of the fastest-growing segments in the credit card business.
Swiss, Austrian, German Franchise
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The Swiss, Austrian, and German franchise of Diners Club has undergone significant changes in recent years. In 2010, Citibank sold the Swiss and German franchises to a private investment group headed by Anthony J. Helbling.
The Austrian and German Diners Club cards are issued by the Austrian DC Bank AG, while the Swiss Diners Club cards are issued by Cornèr Banca SA. This change in ownership has allowed for more flexibility in the way these cards are managed and operated.
Corporate Card
If you're a business owner or entrepreneur, you're probably looking for a corporate card that offers more than just rewards. The Diners Club Carte Blanche Corporate Card is a great option, costing $300 a year with $150 a year for additional cards.
This card features a $100 airline fee credit, which can be a huge help when it comes to business travel. You'll also get a Global Entry/TSA Precheck fee credit, airport lounge access, car rental discounts, and the ability to purchase inflight WiFi.
The card offers 1x points for all purchases, which can be redeemed for a personalized reward once you've earned 50,000+ points. This is a unique feature that lets you design your own reward, no matter what you're dreaming of.
Mastercard Alliance
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In 2004, Diners Club announced an agreement with Mastercard, allowing Diners Club cards issued in the United States and Canada to feature a Mastercard logo and 16-digit account number on the front.
These cards can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted, and they're processed through the Mastercard network.
As of October 2023, BMO is not accepting new applications for Diners Club cards, as they're making improvements to the application process.
Existing card members continue to be served by BMO, which has been issuing Diners Club cards since 2009.
Cards from other countries initially had a 14-digit account number on the front, but since the takeover by Discover Financial Services, they now have the Discover logo on the back and are part of the Discover network.
Benefits and Rewards
Diners Club International offers a range of benefits and rewards to its cardmembers, including the opportunity to earn points on every purchase made with their card.
These points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, such as cash back, travel, and merchandise.
Cardmembers can also enjoy exclusive benefits like travel insurance and concierge services, which can make their travels even more enjoyable and stress-free.
Earning Rewards Points
Earning Rewards Points is one of the most exciting aspects of being a Diners Club cardholder. You can earn points by using your card, and the amount you earn depends on the type of card you have.
The Diners Club app is available for iOS, Android, and Blackberry smartphones, making it easy to keep track of your points and rewards on the go.
Redeeming Rewards Points
Your points will never expire as long as your account is open and in good standing.
You can book travel with any provider and then credit your points against the charge, which works similarly to Capital One's Purchase Eraser.
There are no blackout dates when redeeming your points.
You can book award travel through the Diners Club portal, including flights, hotel stays, and car rentals.
Award cruises and vacation packages are also available, but you'll need to book through a Diners Club travel agent.
You have the flexibility to pay in points or a combination of points and cash.
Direct transfers to a number of travel loyalty programs are allowed, but it takes two to four weeks to transfer, unless you expedite the exchange for a fee.
Global Benefits
As a Diners Club member, you'll have access to a world of exclusive benefits and experiences. You can enjoy a trendy restaurant across town or a new experience across the world.
With Diners Club, you can travel in style with benefits like airport lounge access. You'll also have privileges at hotels, restaurants, wellness centers, and shopping destinations.
Clubmembers can enjoy a range of benefits, including exclusive Club benefits, global destinations and experiences, and a corporate social responsibility program. These perks encourage usage and loyalty among members.
Here are some of the benefits you can expect:
- Exclusive Club benefits
- Global destinations and experiences
- Corporate social responsibility program
Types of Cards
Diners Club offers two types of consumer cards: the Premier and the Elite. The Premier card has a $95 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
The Elite card has a $300 annual fee and all the benefits of the Premier card, plus additional rewards and insurance benefits. Elite cardholders earn 3 Club Reward points per dollar spent at grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations.
Here's a comparison of the two cards:
Both cards offer airport lounge access, car rental discounts, and personal assistance 24/7.
Consumer Cards
The Diners Club Card offers a range of benefits for its cardholders.
The Diners Club Card Elite costs $300 a year, which is $150 a year for additional cards.
This card features 3x points at grocery stores, supermarkets, drug stores, pharmacies, and automobile fuel service stations, and 1x points for all other purchases.
Airport lounge access, car rental discounts, and personal assistance 24/7 are also included with this card.
The Diners Club Card Premier, on the other hand, costs $95 a year, with $35 a year for additional cards.
This card offers 1x points for all purchases and includes airport lounge access, car rental discounts, and personal assistance 24/7.
Here's a comparison of the two cards:
The Diners Club Card Elite offers more rewards points for specific purchases, but the Premier card is a more affordable option with similar perks.
Professional Cards
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If you're in the market for a professional card, Diners Club has a few options to consider. The Diners Club Carte Blanche Card costs $300 a year, with an additional $150 a year for each additional card.
The Carte Blanche Card offers a welcome bonus, but it's not specified. You'll earn 1x points for all purchases, which can be redeemed for rewards.
Airport lounge access is a perk of the Carte Blanche Card, along with free international cell phone rentals and private jet access. You'll also get car rental discounts and personal assistance 24/7.
The Diners Club Charge Card costs $95 a year, with an additional $35 a year for each additional card. The Diners Club Credit Card is free, with no annual fee for additional cards.
The Charge Card and Credit Card both offer airport lounge access and car rental discounts, but the Charge Card has a higher annual fee. The Credit Card earns 0.5x points for all purchases, compared to 1x points on the Carte Blanche Card.
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Here's a quick comparison of the three cards:
The Diners Club Carte Blanche Corporate Card offers a few more perks, including a $100 airline fee credit and a Global Entry/TSA Precheck fee credit.
Sponsorships and Culture
Diners Club International has been a pioneer in sponsorship and cultural events, particularly in the world of tennis. They were the first credit card company to sponsor a major sporting event, the US Open.
Their commitment to tennis has been long-standing, with over 60 years of partnership with the US Open. This partnership has allowed them to reach a vast audience and promote their brand to a dedicated fan base.
Diners Club International has also been involved in various cultural events, such as the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where they sponsored the Olympic Village.
Sponsorships
Sponsorships play a significant role in shaping culture. Diners Club International sponsored the Diners Club Arena in Rapperswil, Switzerland from 2005 until 2016.
This long-term partnership demonstrates the impact of sponsorships on local communities.
In Popular Culture
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Diners Club has made appearances in various forms of media, showcasing its influence on popular culture.
The film The Man from the Diners' Club was released in 1963, featuring a board game with the same title created by the Ideal Toy Company.
In the 1967 film How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, the song Brotherhood of Man includes lyrics referencing Diners Club cards.
Client Liaison, an Australian band, has featured Diners Club cards and logos in several of their retro-themed music videos.
Diners Club has also made an appearance in The Office, where Dwight runs a bed and breakfast and accepts only Mastercard and Diners Club as payment methods.
Here are some notable Diners Club-related entities:
- Diners Club International
- Diners Club USA
- Diners Club Canada
- Discover gets antitrust OK for Diners Club buy, Reuters
Tips & Tricks
As a Diners Club International member, you'll have access to a world of exclusive perks and amenities. You can take advantage of limited-time promotions that offer free room upgrades, spa credits, and even private cooking lessons.
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Free breakfast is a great way to start your day, and Diners Club members can enjoy this benefit. Catered meals and golf merchandise discounts are also available.
With over 1,000 airport lounges to choose from, you'll never be far from a comfortable and convenient spot to relax or get some work done. Complimentary snacks and beverages, newspapers and magazines, televisions, and business centers are just a few of the amenities you can expect.
The Diners Club mobile app gives you 24/7 access to the program's resources and travel assistance from anywhere in the world. You can use it to locate lounges, find ATMs, and discover merchant offers.
Here are some of the key features of the Diners Club mobile app:
- Lounge locator
- ATM locator
- Merchant offers
Joining and Premium
Joining Diners Club International opens doors to a premium global brand.
Diners Club is more than just a card, it's a club that offers exclusivity to its issuers.
As a non-exclusive issuer in select markets, you can still be a part of this trusted brand.
Becoming an exclusive issuer of Diners Club allows you to grow your business and deliver a unique offering to your customers.
Destinations and Travel
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Traveling abroad can be a thrilling experience, and having the right credit card can make all the difference. Diners Club International is a great option for travelers, offering acceptance in over 185 countries worldwide.
From the moment you arrive at your destination, you can use your Diners Club card to pay for everything from hotel stays to restaurant meals. You'll also have access to exclusive benefits and rewards, making your trip even more enjoyable.
Diners Club International has a long history of serving travelers, dating back to 1950 when it was founded by Frank McNamara.
Spain
If you're planning a trip to Spain, you'll want to know that Diners Club Spain was founded in 1954 as the first credit card issuer in the country.
Diners Club Spain has a rich history, with Banco Santander acquiring 75% of the company in 2008 and subsequently buying out AirPlus International's remaining 25% stake in 2021.
Spain is a great destination for travelers, with plenty to see and do.
Latinoamérica
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Latin America is a vibrant and diverse continent, full of rich cultures and exciting destinations. One of the most fascinating aspects of traveling in Latin America is the unique experiences you can have with different credit card companies.
In Argentina, you can use the Diners Club International card, which is administered by Banco Comafi S.A. until 2021. After that, the card will be replaced by a Mastercard from the same bank.
If you're traveling to Brazil, you'll need to know that the Diners Club International card is now operated by Elo, a Brazilian payment and credit card company. They signed an agreement with Diners Club International in 2018 to issue the Elo Diners Club International card.
Colombia is home to the exclusive Banco Davivienda, which has been the owner of the Diners Club International franchise since 1963. They even created a magazine called Revista Diners to promote the brand.
In Ecuador and Peru, the Diners Club International card is owned by the Grupo Pichincha. If you're visiting Venezuela, you'll find that the Banco Mercantil is the exclusive representative of the Diners Club International brand, and it's considered a premium credit card among locals.
International
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When traveling abroad, it's essential to know the specifics of international credit cards. Diners Club International is accepted in many countries, including Spain, where Banco Santander is the major shareholder. Diners Club Spain has a CEO, Luis Miguel Viñuela.
In Spain, Diners Club International is a viable option for tourists and locals alike.
Perú
Perú is a country with a strong presence of Diners Club International. Diners Club Perú has been a pioneer in creating a unique program called "Cuotas sin Intereses" since 2010.
This program allows Diners Club Perú and its partner establishments to assume the financial costs of purchases made by cardholders, promoting customer loyalty.
By 2016, Diners Club Perú had over 4000 establishments affiliated with this program nationwide. The company aims to reach over 6000 establishments by 2017.
In a significant move, Diners Club Perú launched an app for both Android and IOS in March 2018, solidifying its position as a leader in digital services.
Destinations
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Diners Club Destinations is a program that curates and creates features and content to inspire exploration.
Their goal is to enhance the Clubmember lifestyle and keep them engaged in experiences of all types.
This program is designed to inspire exploration and keep members engaged in various experiences.
Their features and content aim to make a positive impact on the Clubmember lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Diners Club International?
Diners Club International is a credit card service that originated as a "club of diners" allowing patrons to settle bills through a monthly credit account. It was initially launched with 27 participating restaurants and 200 founder friends.
What happened to Diners Club International?
Diners Club International was sold multiple times, first to Citicorp in 1981 and then to Discover Financial Services in 2008. Despite domestic decline, it remains a thriving brand in foreign countries.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diners_Club_International
- https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diners_Club
- https://www.moneysmylife.com/the-complete-guide-to-diners-club-international/
- https://www.discoverglobalnetwork.com/solutions/issuing-commerce-collaboration/diners-club-issuing/
- https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/what-is-a-diners-club-card/
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