The contract signifies the continuation of First Data's long-term relationship with Nationwide. First Data will process Nationwide's Visa credit cards, as well as provide a full contact centre for all cardholders.

Paul Feldman, Nationwide divisional director of banking and general insurance, commented, "Our decision to re-appoint First Data was based on a track record of service quality since 1998, including its award winning call centre. First Data has always taken a very flexible approach to our requirements, ensuring that its offering is specifically tailored to the needs of our customers. This agreement will put our members first in delivering excellent service and will deliver best value from a relationship based on partnership and collaboration."

Gerald Hawkins, president EMEA, First Data International, said, "The extension of our contract with Nationwide illustrates our commitment to developing long-term relationships and delivering processing customised to client's requirements. Our full end-to-end service for card processing continues to drive First Data forward as the first choice in the industry."