Ride sharing companies are no longer something new and despite the several issues some of them went through – Uber, specifically, they’re looking forward to offer new services for their clients, considering the continuously growing request for their services.
Uber, first of all, announced that they’re planning to launch its own credit card, partnering with UK-based bank Barclays. According to USA Today, citing a statement issued by the bank, the card could start being issues by the end of the year.
A first for ride-hailing companies
The ride-hailing company would be the first to have a co-branded card, which is an insanely popular method of increasing customer loyalty among companies. Basically, the idea is simple: you receive points or credits toward awards, just like the travel rewards credit cards offer bonuses which can be used for buying plane tickets or booking hotels.
Otherwise, no additional details were provided, but, most likely, the rewards will consists in ride credit. A few months ago, Uber also teamed up with American Express, offering Platinum Card customers free rides, with a total value of $200, yearly.
As you probably know, the company has been involved in a lot of scandals lately, including charges of tolerated chauvinism, a lawsuit over trade secrets and a depleted executive suite. All these lead to the surprising resignation of co-founder and CEO Travis Kalanick, back in June.
Lyft is growing strong
The co-branded card could be a smart move for Uber, considering the fact that one of their main competitors, Lyft, recently received a new funding and expanded into new U.S. market.
Speaking about Lyft, they’re also planning to issue a credit card in the near future, based on the same system, but no other details are available. Currently, they have a partnership with Delta, offering miles, but it’s not done through a card.
