Mercedes-Benz, American Express Offer Co-Branded Charge Card

Mercedes-Benz is taking customer loyalty to a new level by teaming with American Express to offer its own co-branded charge cards. The Mercedes-Benz Credit Card and Platinum Card make their debut today. The credit card – with an annual fee of $95 - offers a variety of perks including 1,000 miles waived at lease-end while the Platinum Card – with an annual fee of $475- offers such features as a $1,000 certificate toward the purchase or lease of a Mercedes-Benz and access to airport clubs and resorts.

This is only the sixth time American Express has teamed with another company to offer a co-brand card. Other partnerships include Delta Airlines and JetBlue. The cards already have a potential customer base of about 3 million Mercedes-Benz drivers in the U.S.

“Our research has shown that existing customers really want to see their experience deepen with the brand,” said Geoff Robinson Mercedes-Benz’s vice president of marketing for Mercedes-Benz Financial Services.

Auto makers are looking for more ways to connect with consumers after they purchase their vehicles. Many offer different discounts and programs designed to lure car buyers back to the deal showrooms.

Since the cards are co-branded, those who enroll are automatically included in American Express’s Membership Rewards program where they can redeem points for a range of options including vacations, tickets to concerts and gift cards. Points can also be transformed into airline frequent-flier programs for award seats.