UniCredit, in collaboration with Mastercard, has announced
the rollout of its upgraded debit, credit, and pre-paid cards to feature the
Mastercard Touch Card technology. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility
for individuals who are blind or partially sighted.
Card Design Supports Visually Impaired Customers
The Mastercard Touch Card introduces features tailored to
assist visually impaired individuals in distinguishing between their payment
cards. Notably, the design incorporates side notches, facilitating card
identification through tactile feedback.
“Inclusion lies at the core of Mastercard´s values, and
Mastercard Touch Card exemplifies our commitment to standards in payment cards,
promoting inclusivity. We are delighted to work with an esteemed partner like
UniCredit to deliver consumer-centric solutions that enhance accessibility for
all,” said Mark Barnett, the President, Mastercard Europe.
Beginning in Italy, the new cards are now available and are
scheduled for gradual distribution throughout 2024 to clients across the twelve
countries where UniCredit operates, encompassing approximately 20 million
cards.
As part of our partnership with @Mastercard, we are upgrading all cards to Mastercard Touch Card™. In line with our #ESG principles and our commitment to #inclusion, the new cards are made from recycled PVC, with accessibility features for blind and partially sighted people.
— UniCredit (@UniCredit_PR) April 22, 2024
New Touch Card Promotes Accessibility
The implementation of the Mastercard Touch Card aligns with
UniCredit’s focus on inclusivity. By providing tools that promote independence
for people with visual impairments during both online and in-store
transactions, the initiative aims to address the needs of an estimated 30
million blind and partially sighted individuals in Europe.
Furthermore, the environmental impact is considered, with
the cards being constructed from recycled PVC. Each card bears the
Mastercard Sustainable Card Badge, certifying its sustainability credentials.
Alberto Palombi, the Head of Group Payment Solutions, UniCredit,
said: “Empowering our communities means ensuring that everyone has access
to the financial tools they need. This is why we are pleased to announce the
integration of notches into our cards for blind and partially sighted
customers, which have also been made using certified sustainable materials.
Banks have a key role to play in shaping a better world, and this is another
way that we wish to show our customers that we are there to support them.”
This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.
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