Affinion Group Inc. Tuesday announced that it has expanded its geographic footprint through the launch of operations in Brazil.  

With the inclusion of this fast-growing market to its existing presence, the Company is able to provide innovative, best-in-class programs in consumer savings, privacy, protection and loyalty solutions to its clients in 17 countries across 4 continents.  

Affinion is a global leader in the designing, marketing and servicing of comprehensive customer engagement and loyalty solutions that enhance and extend the relationship of millions of consumers with many of the largest and most respected companies in the world.

Michael Fahey, formerly Senior Vice President of Affinion International, has been named as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Administrative Officer of Affinion International Brazil.  

In addition, Jonathan Seem, currently country head for Affinion International Spain, will retain that role in addition to serving as interim country head for Brazil.  Fahey will be based out of the Company's newly opened offices in Sao Paulo.

Nathaniel J. Lipman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Affinion Group commented that; "Over the past five years, the expansion of Affinion’s international business has been one of the company’s strategic priorities, and with Tuesday's announcement, Affinion is pleased to be setting the foundation for what should become its next phase of growth outside of the US."  
 
Commenting separately, Rick Fernandes, President of Affinion and Chief Executive Officer of Affinion International noted; "Brazil is an excellent fit for Affinion, as consumers here place a high value on attaining and using loyalty rewards and there are significant prospects in vertical markets where Affinion already has both extensive experience and a history of delivering meaningful results.”  

"Affinion International Brazil is prepared to provide a full range of services in loyalty and customer engagement, and is excited to begin working with the great companies in this market to enhance and extend the relationships they enjoy with consumers," said Fernandes.

Brazil supports one of only three economies in the world, along with the United States and China, generating more than $1.5 trillion in annual GDP across a population of more than 100 million geographically-diverse consumers.  Its attractiveness as a market is further enhanced by a stable political environment and a growing middle class.  

In addition, the country's economy has grown consistently in recent years while experiencing only moderate inflation and its sophisticated banking system provides a supportive environment for the Company's infrastructure needs in both customer acquisition and billing.

11th October 2011