KBC has selected Acquirer Systems' ASTREX to accelerate the rollout of new payments products starting with its new MasterCard Debit Card. ASTREX provides card issuers with a real-time test environment that simulates the end-to-end payments ecosystem. The deployment of ASTREX means that the bank can verify the high quality performance standards it sets for new products independently of its outsourced processing provider.

"Our partnership with Acquirer Systems will make it possible for KBC to launch a debit card product in an accelerated time frame while assuring the highest standards of quality," said Edward Dillon, Head of Retail Products for KBC Bank Ireland. "This relationship will underpin our vision of establishing KBC as a compelling choice for Irish customers. Robust testing and verification of product performance is indispensable to our ambition to excel in service experience and quality."

"We are delighted to have been selected by KBC for such an important role in their retail banking business in Ireland," said Fergal Molloy, CEO Acquirer Systems. "KBC is an exciting new entrant to the debit card market in Ireland and their selection of ASTREX is testament to the role Acquirer Systems can play in facilitating the new product development process to deliver a clear commercial advantage. We look forward to a long and productive relationship with KBC helping them to bring new payment innovations to the market for years to come."