TSYS will begin processing ATM transactions through the LINK network for its first client in 2013 and will have the ability to process LINK transactions on behalf of any LINK member.

LINK is the United Kingdom's ATM network with more than 35 member institutions, including various banks and building societies — many of whom are TSYS clients. The network connects virtually every ATM in the United Kingdom, and its infrastructure is operated by VocaLink.

"Providing TSYS with access to the LINK ATM scheme allows their card issuing clients to process ATM transactions through more than 65,000 UK cash machines connected to the LINK network," said John Howells, chief executive officer, LINK. "Cardholders of TSYS' clients will also now be able to take advantage of the additional services available through LINK, such as mobile phone top-up and direct charity donations."

"This announcement demonstrates TSYS' on-going commitment and the significant investments we are making in the UK payments market," said Bob Evans, managing director of Europe, TSYS. "Payments processing is key to our business, and now that we have access to the LINK scheme, TSYS is able to offer our clients in the UK and Ireland a comprehensive debit solution, built on our industry-leading card processing platform."