Mercedes Benz Teams with AmEx for Upscale Card

The co-branding of Mercedes Benz with American Express may seem like somewhat of a no-brainer, as both names conjure up luxurious associations for so many. The two cards being trotted out – the “Mercedes-Benz Credit Card from American Express” and the “Platinum Card from American Express Exclusively for Mercedes Benz” – feature a co-mingling of perks from both the Membership Rewards program of American Express and the annual benefits offered by Mercedes-Benz.

American Express has teamed up with other companies to offer a co-branded card a handful of times before. Prior partnerships include companies such as JetBlue and Delta Airlines.

“Partnerships are an important part of our consumer card strategy, and we are excited to welcome Mercedes-Benz to our growing family of co-branded cards and to our Membership Rewards program,” announced Gunther Bright to autoremarketing.com. He is the sitting senior vice president and general manager of co-brand partnerships at American Express.

“This truly is a world-class collaboration. We’re offering Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts what they value most — premium rewards that benefit their lifestyle and their vehicle.”

Consumers can choose between the Mercedes-Benz Credit Card from American Express, offering a slew of perks including5X rewards points at Mercedes-Benz dealerships, 3X points for gas purchases, 2X points at restaurants and a $500 certificate toward the purchase or lease of a new Mercedes-Benz. This, after spending $5,000 and all for a $95 annual fee. The Platinum Card from American Express Exclusively for Mercedes-Benz avails holders ofaccess to Airport Clubs, The Fine Hotels & Resorts Program and Platinum Card Concierge, a $200 Airline Credit, no foreign exchange fees, a $1,000 certificate toward the purchase or lease of a new Mercedes-Benz after spending $5,000 and more, but all for a $475 annual fee.

“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, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Because the cards are co-branded, anyone who enrolls is included automatically in American Express’s Membership Rewards program where they can then redeem any points for vacations, tickets to concerts and various gift cards. Points can also be converted into airline frequent-flier mile programs for award seats.

Lauren Palmer

Lauren Palmer is a freelance writer who is a regular contributor to a variety of online and print publications. Although she has much to say about many subjects, she specializes in topics pertaining to personal finance. She holds a bachelor’s degree from NYU in journalism.