Under the terms of the long-term agreement, the STAR Network will continue to provide PIN-secured debit access at retailers and ATMs, and ATM and signature debit card processing for KeyBank's 2,200 ATMs and 4.6 million credit and debit cards.

"We're very pleased that KeyBank has chosen to renew its agreement with the STAR Network," said Ronald V. Congemi, president, STAR Systems/Debit Services. "Electronic access holds significant revenue opportunities for financial institutions, and we greatly appreciate the chance to help KeyBank be even more successful through strategically leveraging their ATM and payment channels."

"STAR's commitment to innovation will keep KeyBank on the leading edge of convenience," said Michele M. Mullee, senior vice president, Key Distribution Management. "We look forward to working with STAR in new and creative ways to expand our footprint and reach additional customers while minimizing operational costs."

In 2003, the STAR Network served 1.26 million ATM and POS locations nationwide. In February, 2004, STAR became part of the First Data family of companies. Congemi added, "As part of First Data we're looking forward to using our combined resources to deliver even more valuable services to our financial institution participants."