Microsoft Corp. is launching a private-label credit card program for its Microsoft System Builder Program participants. The card was prompted by customer requests, the company said.
The card program will be managed by Household International, Prospect Heights, IL. It will offer Microsoft's System Builder business customers a revolving line of credit for purchases of hardware, software and other computer products. The System Builder Program lets businesses buy hardware and software for use in the resale of business computer systems.
System Builder participants can apply online and receive up to $25,000 credit at an annual rate of 9.5 percent, Household International said. With the card, participants can buy Microsoft-branded software and hardware as well as non-Microsoft products through participating authorized distributors in the United States.
“With this program, we are strengthening the buying power in the channel and ensuring that our system builders are well-equipped to provide and preinstall genuine Microsoft products on systems they sell to their customers,” said Bob Bostwick, Microsoft's director of broad channel marketing.
Household International will administer the program through its Household Retail Services USA division, one of the country's largest private-label credit card issuers.
