Cutting edge technology and debit cards to be discussed at bank marketing winter conference.

BOSTON --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Jan. 13, 1995 -- The impact of new technology on financial institutions and the rapid growth of debit cards are two of five major topics to be discussed at the New England Chapter Bank Marketing Association winter conference being held Jan. 26 at the Sheraton Tara Hotel in Framingham, Mass.

William M. Randle, senior vice president and director of marketing and strategic planning at Huntington BankShares Inc., Columbus, Ohio, will offer insights on how the banking industry will be shaped by the impact of new technology. He will describe the issues banks will be face with, new devices and systems and how consumers can be expected to respond.

Debit cards, one of the fastest growing products in banking, will be addressed by Jack Gray, vice president, Regional Sales Debit Card Services, MasterCard International Inc. Analysts predict that in the next four years there will be a 400 percent growth rate. Gray will describe the latest developments and capabilities of the versatile debit card, along with additional uses to the existing debit card that are likely to be introduced in the future. His analysis will also include expansion into nontraditional debit acceptance outlets, the potential consumer market and technological features.

Other subjects on the program are: Branch Merchandising; Marketing Audits and Team Building.

NEBMA members and guests are invited to attend the conference. For more information contact Mary Malone at the Worcester Area Chamber of Commerce, [phone].

The Bank Marketing Association is an affiliate of the American Bankers Association and provides marketing information, education and other services to financial institutions. The New England Chapter counts 150 financial institutions among its members.

CONTACT: Citizens Bank

              Lori L. Tesky, 401/456-7486
              or
              Compass Consulting Group
              401/521-9050