Discover Financial Services Introduces Biodegradable Discover(R) Card

December 9, 2008

Only U.S. Biodegradable Consumer Credit Card in the Marketplace

RIVERWOODS, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 9, 2008--Discover Financial Services today announced the launch of a biodegradable Discover(R) Card option, the only U.S. biodegradable consumer credit card currently available in the marketplace.

The biodegradable Discover Card is made of biodegradable PVC, a substance that allows 99 percent of the card plastic to be safely absorbed when exposed to landfill conditions. The card plastic will begin to break down in soil, water, compost or wherever microorganisms are present; with it fully degrading within five years. The biodegradable card can be identified by the biodegradable symbol that will be visible on the back of the card.

"The biodegradable Discover Card is another way for environmentally conscious consumers to do their part to help protect our planet," said Kelly Tufts, director of marketing planning & strategy at Discover Financial Services.

Discover Card also offers cardmembers an additional opportunity to help the environment by enrolling in paperless statements. In 2008, Discover Card sent nearly 14 million paperless statements, which has helped save more than an estimated 4.6 million pounds of paper.

The biodegradable card provides the same best-in-class features and benefits that all Discover Card cash rewards cards include, such as:

  • Cashback Bonus Program - Discover Cardmembers benefit from a Cashback BonusProgram that offers cardmembers unlimited rewards:
    • Ability to earn up to 1% Cashback Bonus(R) automatically on all purchases.
    • Flexible redemption options that allow cardmembers to redeem Cashback Bonus as a statement credit, direct deposit to a bank account, or a Partner gift card.
    • Turn their Cashback Bonus into bigger rewards every time they redeem for gift cards or instant eCertificates from over 100 brand-name Partners.
  • Rewards When Shopping Online - To make their money worth more, cardmembers can earn 5% to 20% Cashback Bonus all year round when shopping at top online retailers such as Target.com, Overstock.com and Barnes&Noble.com through Discover Card's online shopping portal, ShopDiscover (www.discover.com/shop).
  • Award-winning Customer Service - Discover Card products are supported by a knowledgeable and empowered team of customer service representatives, who are reachable in less than 60 seconds, 24/7, and who are committed to solving cardmembers' issues in just one phone call.
  • Advanced Fraud Protection - Discover Card also provides advanced and convenient fraud protection, with a $0 Fraud Liability guarantee. Cardmembers are never responsible for unauthorized charges - online, offline, anytime, anywhere.
  • Best-in-Class Travel Benefits - Cardmembers are covered by the most complete set of free travel benefits offered by any no-fee credit card. Global Traveler's Hotline provides fast, friendly travel assistance in just one call.

Discover Cardmembers can simply request the biodegradable card at http://www.discovercard.com/customer-service/account/choose-design.html or by calling 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683). Individuals looking to apply for the card also can call 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683).

To learn more about Discover Card products, please visit www.discover.com.

About Discover Financial Services

Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) is a leading credit card issuer and electronic payment services company with one of the most recognized brands in U.S. financial services. The company operates the Discover Card, America's cash rewards pioneer. Since its inception in 1986, the company has become one of the largest card issuers in the United States. Its payments businesses consist of the Discover Network, with millions of merchant and cash access locations; PULSE, one of the nation's leading ATM/debit networks; and Diners Club International, a global payments network with acceptance in 185 countries and territories. For more information, visit www.discoverfinancial.com.

CONTACT: Discover Financial Services
Laura Gingiss
224-405-0185
lauragingiss@discoverfinancial.com

Source: Discover Financial Services