Technology and digitization have transformed services across industries including: retail, hotel, music and media.New consumer behaviors and shopping habits, combined with constant access to mobile devices, are changing consumer expectations for services to be accessible any time anywhere. At the same time, international travel has increased, even more so in Luxembourg. In 2016, 80% of Luxembourg residents traveled abroad for leisure at least once[1], compared with 66% two decades ago. When it comes to payments, clients expect a smooth and secure experience whether they are shopping online from home, at the supermarket or when they travel. And to simplify their daily life, BIL has partnered with Visa to revamp its debit and credit cards offering.

Didier Richter, Head of Daily Banking & Payments at BIL said: “We’re proud to partner with Visa, as we share a common goal to use our innovative capabilities to provide a seamless payment experience for our clients. This new range of debit and credit cards will offer additional coverage and assistance services.”

All cards will offer insurance and assistance services adapted to modern lifestyles, from purchase coverage for the Visa Classic to access to airport lounges and dedicated concierge service for the Visa Infinite. BIL also added perks such as insurance for stolen smartphone or bicycle or scooter assistance[2]. With a sleek new design, the card offers user-friendly features such as a quick-read card number. Innovation will not stop there: BIL will have access to Visa’s broad range of APIs (Application Programming Interface) which will allow it to expand its own payment services offering and experience.

"Thanks to our payment network, BIL customers will be able to make payments to millions of merchants in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. A guarantee for them, whether travelling occasionaly or regulary, to pay in a simple and secure way around the world", explains Jean-Marie de Crayencour, Country Manager for Belgium and Luxembourg at Visa.

BIL will issue new Visa cards starting in December 2019. For current cardholders, they will be available in January 2020.

[1] Statec, Regards 11 sur les vances de loisirs en 2016, juillet 2017.

[2] Coverage, insurance and assistance services varies according to credit card type